Air injection tube removal

[marcd]

I'm replacing the air injection tubes and I'm paranoid I'm going to break the bolts that hold them. I've sprayed them several times with PB Blaster, but that can't get to the threads. I've heard some people take a torch to them first. I was thinking about just warming the engine up and then removing the bolts. Other than numerous burns on my little fingers, does this sound like it would help or does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks.

[jeepguzzi]

I have removed quite a few of those. I didn't heat them, just used a 5 point socket and a breaker bar after soaking. I did not break any. I wonder how much oil would get to the threads by squirting it down the AIR tube?? The bolts are hollow, and have a hole that lets air into the tube, you know.

[marcd]

Well that makes me feel a lot better. Maybe they're not quite as delicate as I feared . . . .

[tgreese]

My problem has always been not breaking the air manifold, not the bolts. They seem to rust together, and the end of the air manifold turns with the bolt, breaking the tubing.

[marcd]

If that's my only problem, I'll be happy. I have replacements for the air tubes. I guess I don't have to be such a wuss with those bolts (knock on wood).

[Nobby]

Luck of the draw I guess, most of mine broke, and yes I did soak extensively with PB blaster, use heat etc. Used every trick I know.
Wound up drilling out and re-tapping. You've got two chances I guess.

here's a previous post on it with part#'s

http://www.ifsja.org/ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=3;t=017510#000014

[mdill]

I ended up pulling the manifold, drilling one out
from the rear, was able to drill it pretty close
to the threads (one nice thing about being hollow
they are real easy to get the drill to center),
then I split the shell (What little was left of the
bolt) and pealed it out, chased the threads (they
were pretty good as they were). I have never had
luck trying to save AIR tubes when removing the
bolts on any car older than a year or so.

Mike D.

[klank]

1/2 a can of marvel oil, 2 foot breaker bar and mine came out.

[AM Woody]

Just don't rush it. Some of mine twisted a little, but I only broke one. Used an easy-out type extractor (on an air ratchet!) to get it out and the manifold threads were fine. Wire wheel 'em and use never-sieze on the reinstall...

[Zac]

I just used an adjustable wrench and everything worked fine no breakage on any of the parts. I guess I am just lucky.
Zac