How to attack the exhaust bolts

[Nvy]

So like the title states I want to remove the exhaust so that I can test fit the turbo manifold but the bolts and the studs look like they have seen the ww2. How can I undo them w/o drilling or at least whats the best course of action?

[Carolyn]

I take it you're referring to the manifold-to-head nuts and studs?  The ones between the manifold and cat can just be given some sh~t with a long ratchet/small breaker bar - if they shear it's no big deal - you can substitute nuts and bots in needed.

The ones that go into the head- the nuts will often come off with a ratchet and six-sided socket. Often the studs themselves will come out of the head complete with nuts. They rarely shear (but they can).

Start with plenty of Plus-gas and a couple of days soaking.

Good luck - take it slow!

[Iain]

I cleaned mine up as much as i could with a wire brush then kept soaking them for a couple of days prior with penetrating fluid.

[Nvy]

I take it you're referring to the manifold-to-head nuts and studs?  The ones between the manifold and cat can just be given some sh~t with a long ratchet/small breaker bar - if they shear it's no big deal - you can substitute nuts and bots in needed.

The ones that go into the head- the nuts will often come off with a ratchet and six-sided socket. Often the studs themselves will come out of the head complete with nuts. They rarely shear (but they can).

Start with plenty of Plus-gas and a couple of days soaking.

Good luck - take it slow!

Will vd40 work?

[Carolyn]

Plus gas is what you need.  Wd40 doesn't have the same effect. you can mix diesel with WD if you can't get Plus-gas.  Or there may be a proper penetrating fluid that's sold where you are?  Aviation kerosene is pretty good.

[Gaz mr-s]

I'd recommend a set of sockets like these.  The best know brand is Irwin's,  but this set is cheaper in the UK. Not failed on me yet.  I suggest stainless studs when putting back together.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/erbauer-bolt-nut-remover-set-6-pcs/6083D?kpid=6083D&ds_rl=1244066&gclid=CjwKCAjw586hBhBrEiwAQYEnHRhULflGdOO6jY_a2e5hgIo8d1ijqfaqBCb1herE4vdM73znZ1vtExoCLMgQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

[Dev]

I'd recommend a set of sockets like these.  The best know brand is Irwin's,  but this set is cheaper in the UK. Not failed on me yet.  I suggest stainless studs when putting back together.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/erbauer-bolt-nut-remover-set-6-pcs/6083D?kpid=6083D&ds_rl=1244066&gclid=CjwKCAjw586hBhBrEiwAQYEnHRhULflGdOO6jY_a2e5hgIo8d1ijqfaqBCb1herE4vdM73znZ1vtExoCLMgQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

I have a set of bolt outs like that which have worked well for these bolts.
 I found that they work best when the bolt head is dry.  Invaluable tool that has saved me more times than I remember.