I have been trying to get at the lower bolts on the intake manifold but it seems that any angle I try, I can't get the socket on the bolt because there is something in the way. I would have had the head off by now

I have a 3" & 12" extension as well as a swivel-joint.

Thank YOU!

 

oh god talk about a pita.

 

YOu are doing a headgasket install without a service manual?? Are you crazy?

 

I have the service manual. All it says for that step is "remove the intake manifold"

 

Update - I just got the lower left bolt out after moving afew vacuum lines around.

 

Yes, and in that same manual, there is a step by step on removing the intake manifold. It is just not in the same place as the head removal. That whole book referances other places in the book. If it did not is would be 10 times as thick.

 

you should also get a 6 inch extension!!!

 

Pull the alternator out, the belt tensioner, the aluminum block that the tensioner bolts to, and the black bracket behind it. Most of the bolts will become very easy.

 

Yes, I found that page (9-2) and all it shows is an exploded view. No tips on how to remove it.