Changing the exhaust manifold gaskets?

HIDDEN4321

MEMBER
2001 DODGE DAKOTA
3.9L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
200,000 MILES

I'm wanting to look at changing the exhaust manifold gaskets since it looks like it's separated from the surface. Does it cause a noise like a hum noise as your driving that seems louder, and you go faster or give gas? I also am still losing oil somewhere and at one time a code in sufficient on exhaust (can't recall code way BK but reset and went away. Likely caused from sitting at lights).

Is that one of the common sounds when a leak is present? There's no ticking.
Also do I have a few bolts that have nuts holding the exhaust cover on studs? And what technique besides using heat. Would warming engine help? I don't have a torch but a heat gun. Hopefully a few use nuts, not bolts too.
Thanks

5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,603 POSTS

If you upload a short video of the noise, I can tell for sure what's going on. Here is a video that will help you if you break one of the exhaust manifold bolts and I included instructions on how to remove the exhaust manifolds as well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=py-rIWATchY

Please start a new thread for the oil leak problem. Sorry, we only handle one problem per thread, please post your new question here, you must be logged in.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

Check out the images (below). Please upload pictures or videos in your response of any problems so we can see what to help you with.

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Saturday, December 28th, 2024 AT 10:59 AM

HIDDEN4321

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62 POSTS

What technique helps to loosen bolts? I sprayed it a few days ago when warm. Will try again in morning. Is it too risky to use an air tool to loosen? Because of the high chance of break. Can I leave studs in on 2 of the 4 and just remove nut?
I can't drive it right now, but I will try to get a pic where gasket is separated.

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Sunday, December 29th, 2024 AT 6:31 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,603 POSTS

Yep, I would use wd40 overnight and then use a high-quality socket or wrench to help loosen the bolts, I would loosen, then tighten a little and then loosen to help the bolts come out. I would use air tools as a last resort. Check the video in the post above in case you break one.

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Monday, December 30th, 2024 AT 9:12 AM

HIDDEN4321

MEMBER
62 POSTS

Okay, will I get a better bite if I don't use extensions on the socket?
Yes, I've put PB Blaster on it. So, no need to start the engine to heat up?

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Monday, December 30th, 2024 AT 10:21 AM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,603 POSTS

Sometimes it does help if the engine is warm, you can use an extension, be the judge on the best set up. If you have a question upload an image so I can see.