Replacing Turbo to Exhaust Manifold Gasket

[CowPimp]

Well, for a little bit I got away with just tightening the 4 bolts on the exhaust manifold. Apparently, I didn't tighten them down soon enough, and the gasket got trashed (Most likely as a result of the hot air streaming over it constantly).

What is the easiest way to replace the gasket between the turbo and the exhaust manifold?

I'm reluctant to take off the exhaust manifold, as it looks like a pain in the ass and I would most likely have to replace the gasket between the exhaust manifold and the engine too. Would it perhaps be easier to remove the turbo and replace it that way? Keep in mind, I only have the most basic tools (Socket wrenches and such).

Thanks in advance.

 

[AWDTSiTalon]

In the long run it would be less work to remove the manifold. If you go the turbo route you will have water and oil lines to deal with. You would also have to remove the downpipe, intake pipes, ect.

 

[CowPimp]

In the long run it would be less work to remove the manifold. If you go the turbo route you will have water and oil lines to deal with. You would also have to remove the downpipe, intake pipes, ect.

Thanks for the quick reply. That's why I like these forums, friendly and helpful; you guys rule. Looks like I have a couple hours of work ahead of me. Also, do you think it's necessary that I also get a new exhaust manifold to engine gasket? The one on there was replaced when I got my FP28, which was just under 20K miles ago.

One final question: Are there any other tools or parts that I might need to remove the exhaust manifold and replace the gasket in question (Turbo to exhaust manifold)?

 

[AWDTSiTalon]

Thanks for the quick reply. That's why I like these forums, friendly and helpful; you guys rule. Looks like I have a couple hours of work ahead of me. Also, do you think it's necessary that I also get a new exhaust manifold to engine gasket? The one on there was replaced when I got my FP28, which was just under 20K miles ago.

One final question: Are there any other tools or parts that I might need to remove the exhaust manifold and replace the gasket in question (Turbo to exhaust manifold)?

I would replace both gaskets if you can. If not, you could get away with reusing it. The only tools you need are a 12mm and 14mm wrench.

 

[CowPimp]

I would replace both gaskets if you can. If not, you could get away with reusing it. The only tools you need are a 12mm and 14mm wrench.

I will probably just go ahead and get the exhaust manifold to engine gasket. It's only another $15. Cheaper than I thought.

Once again, thanks for your help. This will be the most intensive thing I've done on my car as of yet. I'm just starting to force myself to become my own mechanic as much as possible. I think it's a good first real project.

 

[Quasimondo]

Just go ahead and replace both gaskets. The manifold to exhaust housing gasket can be ordered from slowboy racing, I forgot how much it costs, but it's about 3mm thick, and if that's not resuable, then I don't know what is.

When you pull off the manifold, order some replacement collector bolts, and don't bother to reuse the existing ones, or that studpost that's there. I've had nothing but bad luck and broken bolts whenever I re-used existing bolts.

 

[CowPimp]

Just go ahead and replace both gaskets. The manifold to exhaust housing gasket can be ordered from slowboy racing, I forgot how much it costs, but it's about 3mm thick, and if that's not resuable, then I don't know what is.

When you pull off the manifold, order some replacement collector bolts, and don't bother to reuse the existing ones, or that studpost that's there. I've had nothing but bad luck and broken bolts whenever I re-used existing bolts.

Thanks for your advice, but unfortunately I already did the job. I did purchase both gaskets (The engine to manifold gasket was $15.50 at Extreme Motorsports). However, I did not purchase the additional bolts. Either way, things went just fine. The car runs so much better now. It accelerates, decelerates, and idles smoother; the turbo hits full boost where it should; and the car is a lot quieter. While I was down in there I also fixed a minor issue with an imperfect seal around my air filter.

Next project, fix the busted headlight that someone hit and run. I need to get a lift or some jackstands so I can take the bumper off, but that's another thread.

Thanks for all your help everyone. This site and these forums have helped me tremendously!

 

[midnght]

I know you already did the job, but is this....

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the gasket you are talking about?


If so, you could have changed it for the price of the part plus about 5min of actual work.

 

[oldman]

You should remove the stud this time and replacement it with another bolt. this will make it easier for next time.

 

[snoozin]

digging up another dead thread... but ive searched and cant find much. is it possible to removed the exhaust manni without dropping the turbo? i just got done putting my exhaust on and i really dont want to drop it again. the stud is still in the turbo, but will be replaced with a bolt as soon as i get around to getting a new manni and such. thanks in advance.

 

[oldman]

Unbolt the 02 housing from the DP and you should be able to wiggle the exhuast manifold out, be careful not to bend the oil and water lines.

 

[Daveed]

digging up another dead thread... but ive searched and cant find much. is it possible to removed the exhaust manni without dropping the turbo? i just got done putting my exhaust on and i really dont want to drop it again. the stud is still in the turbo, but will be replaced with a bolt as soon as i get around to getting a new manni and such. thanks in advance.

Yes, I just did it. Had to undo the top of the oil line for the turbo (connected to the left side of the head) and loosened the exhaust below and a few other hoses off the turbo.

Check the VFAQ site for some awesome write ups on how to remove the exhaust manifold.