Hi,

I recently bought a '62 Lincoln Continental, and have found that my exhaust mainfolds are leaking from the area where the gasket seals to the engine. I know that these manifolds are notorious for cracking, however in inspecting mine I don't see any cracks (sigh of relief). I'm wondering if anyone has tried and succeeded in removing the manifolds while the engine is in the car? The shop manual suggests removing the heads in order to gain access to the exhaust manifolds, and I really don't want to do that if I don't have to.... Any advice would be much appreciated!

Thanks,

Joe

I can't remember if removing the heads is the only way, but I doubt. Anyway if for some reason you decide to remove the heads consider machining the gasket surfaces at the manifold and at the heads. This way you don't need to use gaskets. It is said that this holds up a lot better than w. a gasket. It has been successfully done on FE engines.

Not sure the heads have to come off. I'd hope not.
If the heads don't come off (and aren't surfaced as suggested) I'd recommend using exhaust cement for a long term seal.

Does the manual say the heads have to come off?

The heads can stay on. But you need to undo the motor & tranny mounts + lift the engine 2 inches (put blocks of wood between the block and 'frame', then remove the jack) to be able to reach the bottom four nuts on the exhaust manifolds.

Also loosen the fan shroud and others bits & pieces that might get snagged while lifting the motor.