Header Removal Process

[t36]

I have at least one leak in my headers.
I searched this forum and didn't really find much in detail for a removal process. Across other forums I have found posts suggesting everything from needing to remove the cam tower, loosen the engine mount and jack up the passenger side, coolant pipe off or just unbolted.

I have removed all 8 studs, and the 6 bolts at the collector. I removed the Allen bolts holding the coolant pipe and reinstalled the bolts to keep proper tension on the gasket.

I loosened the passenger engine mount and jacked up the header side of the motor.

I still can't even get header 2/3 out. The tabs of the heat shield its wrapped in fowl on the strut tower. Honestly, without the built in shields it would probably squeeze by ok. I really don't want to scratch up the engine bay as its quite nice.
What's everyone's method for removing these in 2026?

Do I need to remove the coolant pipe entirely? I was also thinking of clamping the hose from the heater core and quickly plugging the pipe and moving it up and out of the way with minimal coolant loss.

Are you pulling the 2/3 up between the engine and the coolant pipe? or between the strut tower and the pipe. Any tips would be very helpful! thanks Carpokes!

[944m3]

I don’t have any specific advice. I think I remember I had to remove the heat shields and water pipe. I do remember bloody knuckles. It sucks but they will come out.

But wow that is a clean engine bay!

[zooklm1]

It has been a while since I had done this job. As I remember, I moved the coolant pipe. I think I had loosened the crossover but not 100% sure (but will likely need to do so when installing the replacement manifold). I think it helps to remove some of the exhaust studs to give space/clearance. I think I pulled out/put in one section at a time. If your exhaust side engine mount has collapsed, the clearance is further diminished.

[Tom]

Yeah unless you remove the crossover and take them out the bottom, that coolant pipe pretty much needs to come out. I usually just drain the coolant as I always worry clamps will crush/damage rubber hoses. Yours look young and healthy though, so maybe they're ok being clamped...

[t36]

Yeah unless you remove the crossover and take them out the bottom, that coolant pipe pretty much needs to come out. I usually just drain the coolant as I always worry clamps will crush/damage rubber hoses. Yours look young and healthy though, so maybe they're ok being clamped...

awesome! thanks everyone! Out it comes.
I'll get some temporary hose plugs machined. Clamp the hose, remove it, plug it, and unclamp. All new hoses, so 3 seconds of clamping doesn't scare me!