Tantrix

Well, my '86 4x4 is on it's 2nd 22RE engine and just rolled 84k miles and I have the dreaded exhaust manifold leak on cylinder #1. When I put this engine in I noticed the studs had been replaced with bolts which is commonly done, so I figured no big deal. However, after taking the manifold off to put a new gasket on I noticed the #1 bolt up top towards the front end had aluminum shavings on the bolt. Sure enough, I put the manifold back on and using a torque wrench tried to torque it to spec and the bolt kept turning which means I have at least one hole, possibly more that will have to be Helicoiled in order for the manifold to be torqued to spec.

This is the 3rd time I've run into this, so this go around I'm thinking of just leaving it alone and driving the damn thing. The leak isn't bad or anything but it is annoying. As much as I love the 22RE engines, I hate their exhaust manifold leaks.

Swimmerboy2112

iTrader: (2)

Mine is also leaking on my 86' 4x4. I'm just gonna put on a header and new gasket.

Tantrix

I wish mine was that simple, but apparently the previous owner or shadetree mechanic that changed the manifold gasket before I acquired the engine over-torqued the first bolt and stripped the aluminum threads in the head so I'm gonna need it Helicoiled to properly fix it. The worst part is that may not be the only one that's stripped, it could be more. Other than that, the engine is in pristine condition and runs very strong.