Topic: Message #1136015

[Gnarly4X]

Secrets to No problems with Manifold to head leaks.
#1 Have your exhaust manifold or header surfaced. (Makes a huge difference having a flat surface to seal)
#2 use the Factory exhaust manifold gasket. (Its expensive, Good things always are)
#3 Replace all the exhaust studs and nuts with new and the correct length. (Use the factory stuff, Its not that expensive and they are unique lengths)
#4 Use a torque wrench to tighten the exhaust manifold lock nuts. (Every one of them should tighten to spec, If not it was going to leak)
#5 Warm everything to operating Temp, Full hot. Then While its hot, Jump back in there and retorque everything. (WHILE ITS HOT!, NOT AFTER)
#6 (optional) I use the copper Headgasket spray/exhaust spray on both sides of the gasket.

If you do this You will never have a problem with the exhaust manifold leaking. Do it right, Do it once, and never think about it again. 
   

This may work once, and may work well for others, but in my experience (all 3 of my 22s), after 100K+ miles on the stock exhaust manifold, factory gasket, and nuts, the nuts will NOT loosen without spinning the studs in the head, and will NOT torque to spec when retightening, or replacing the stock manifold with a header without spinning the studs in the head -- when attempting to use the stock nuts.

Maybe it's just been my bad luck?

Gnarls.