Exhaust manifold lock tabs (Hipo)

6hypo5conv_old · January 11, 2011 at 3:15 PM

Any suggestions as to how to best bend the tabs away from the bolt heads while engine is IN the car?

I need to replace mine that have started to get a bit ugly, also would I be right in shooting some high heat clear paint on the new ones before installing to try & preserve them? Thanks!

bigal_old · January 11, 2011 at 3:20 PM

thats a job, you have to remove the exhaust h pipe and then try not to scratch the car. I would use some steel wool and metal prep and then oil

jwc66k · January 11, 2011 at 4:16 PM

I used a combination of several chisels, long pry bars, pliers and side cutters with an occasional hammer (and some wine) to get the tabs open. Consider some new exhaust bolts from AMK while you are there. If the manifolds are removed (like to paint them), remember to put a spark plug with a spark plug socket on the plug in the last cylinder on each side to insure the socket will fit after tightening the bolts. In removing my RH manifold, I found easy access to the starter cable so I replaced it.

Jim

CharlesTurner · January 11, 2011 at 4:16 PM

You can wiggle the tabs back straight with a flat tip screwdriver. You may decide to just replace them though. We've been finding what appears to be originals dipped in black paint before installation.

6hypo5conv_old · January 12, 2011 at 9:07 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>

thats a job, you have to remove the exhaust h pipe and then try not to scratch the car. I would use some steel wool and metal prep and then oil

What is "metal prep" and where can I buy it?

C6ZZKGT · January 12, 2011 at 9:32 AM Official Post

"Metal Prep" is a common automotive paint supply store item.

-Fred-

6hypo5conv_old · January 12, 2011 at 10:49 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>

You can wiggle the tabs back straight with a flat tip screwdriver. You may decide to just replace them though. We've been finding what appears to be originals dipped in black paint before installation.

Thanks Charles!! If I go ahead and replace the locks what would you recomend to reproduce the "dipped" look in something that won't burn off with the type of heat that the manifolds will see.

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