Exhaust Manifold(s)

[GC617289]

Has anyone removed the exhaust manifold(s) of a '98-'03 RX300/Highlander with the 1MZFE engine? The top 3 nuts are easy to remove from the front (LH) manifold but the lower 3 and the rear (RH) nuts seem to be unreachable.

Is it necassary to remove components to reach these nuts?

I need to do this so my friendly body shop can weld the crack(s) in the manifold(s) that plague this engine!

Thanks.

[GC617289]

Has anyone removed the exhaust manifold(s) of a '98-'03 RX300/Highlander with the 1MZFE engine? The top 3 nuts are easy to remove from the front (LH) manifold but the lower 3 and the rear (RH) nuts seem to be unreachable.

Is it necassary to remove components to reach these nuts?

I need to do this so my friendly body shop can weld the crack(s) in the manifold(s) that plague this engine!

Thanks.

This reply from poster ...

I did successfully remove the Front, or L/H, manifold. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Spray all nuts (10) and A/F Sensor with rust penetrant oil and leave overnight. I used Fabulous 'Blaster' PB purchased at a True Value hardware store. It works very, very well!

2. Disconnect A/F Sensor connector (near battery) and remove A/F Sensor with 22mm wrench. It's best to do this first while the manifold is securely anchored to the engine.

3. Slightly loosen the top 3 manifold nuts (14mm 6-point ratchet).

4. Slightly loosen the bottom 3 manifold nuts (14mm 6-point ratchet). A collection of extension tubes and universal joints are reuired.

5. Slightly loosen the 2 nuts on the studs in the catalytic converter

6. Remover the bracket anchoring the mainfold to the engine block.

7. Remove the 6 manifold nuts and 2 nuts at the catalytic converter loosened in (3) to (5).

The manifold falls off the engine easily. Remove and disgard the engine gasket. Remove and disgard the gasket between the manifold and catalytic converter.