Pull 360 with or without exhaust manifold

[mattv]

I’m preparing to replace a Flexplate, 1980 J20 360/727
I’ve heard of potential conflict with heater box and exhaust manifold
Should I leave the manifold on the pipe (more rusty bolts) or just undo the pipe?
I’ve pulled engines on fords and chevys , but not Jeeps
Any input would be greatly appreciated

[AtlantaDan]

Nothing special about pulling a Jeep engine over any other. It's easier with the manifolds off, but there's enough room in there to wiggle it out with them on. Were it my car, they'd be coming off just because I like to make the job as easy as possible.

[tgreese]

JMO - dealing with a broken bolt at the pipe is way easier than a broken bolt in the head. If things go wrong removing the manifolds, you may end up taking the heads to a machine shop for broken bolt removal. If I didn't have exhaust leaks at the head, I would leave the manifolds on.

If you worry about room to work, you can remove the core support or front clip pretty easily on these cars.

A muffler shop can blast out a broken bolt at the pipe using the cutting torch, if you have trouble. Easy.

[mattv]

Thanks for the answers
I am considering removing the core for easy access
Is it mounted on bushings? ( that may need replacing)
Finding correct parts is always a concern
Thanks, again

[tgreese]

You mean core support? The core is the radiator, and I would remove that to avoid damage. Easy to bump it and put a hole in it. BTDT. Maybe the pros don't need to ...

[mattv]

Oh, sorry. Yes I did mean to say “core support “. I’m not sure my ceiling is high enough to clear the top of it

[tgreese]

Have only done this on CJs not J-trucks. Maybe someone can comment with first-hand experience. I'd think you could pull the whole clip just as easily as the core support. Remove the radiator, battery, etc. Unbolt from the front crossmember and at the back of the fenders. Two people should be able t lift it off as a unit. I'd also remove the hood.

If you make another post with like "remove core support or front clip?" as the title, you may get more responses.

[Stuka]

It is a fair amount more work to remove the whole front clip. Everything that is attached to them (including the battery and such) has to be disconnected and/or removed. The bolts that hold the fenders on if rusted, can be a pain. But it does give you tons of room.

[mattv]

Thanks
I kind of like the front-clip idea
I’ve always wanted to get in there for cleaning and painting and replacing hardware as needed
And I’ve got a mechanic to help
And most importantly, I can live without the truck for a week or two.
More research, now
Thanks again