X Pipe Swap Tools

mech4matsnova · Mar 30, 2009

Does anyone know what size bolts are on the stock header flanges, what size open end wrench I will need for the o2 sensors, and what size bolts the o2 sensor bracket? I have done this swap before, but its been a while and I wanted to make sure I have the right tools before I start. Im working with a limited set of tools this time, dont have any of mine. Im trying to avoid bashing my head against the wall trying to do this with almost no tools. :BangHead: Also, which way does the gasket go on the passenger side manifold, ring up or down? Thanks for any wisdom anyone can provide.

blown98gt · Mar 30, 2009

o2 sensor is a special tool, you can get it from any auto parts store. It's basically a socket with side of it gone so the wire can go out the side. that and a adjustable wrench are two things to have, but a basic socket set should be ok. also buy new ford gaskets when you swap it all out i've found that the ford gaskets are the best in the exhaust stuff

glittle75 · Mar 30, 2009

O2 sensors are like 21mm if i remeber right, i just used a wrench. and the bolts for mid-pipe to manifolds are studs, they are the same size as your oil plug, and I recommend getting a deep socket for them.

get a can of PB Blaster and soak them like a couple hours before you want to do it, they are a bitch to get off. I ended up having to use a socket extractor to get mine off, and just bought new hardware.

Willis_98GT · Mar 30, 2009

glittle75 said:
O2 sensors are like 21mm if i remeber right, i just used a wrench. and the bolts for mid-pipe to manifolds are studs, they are the same size as your oil plug, and I recommend getting a deep socket for them.

get a can of PB Blaster and soak them like a couple hours before you want to do it, they are a ***** to get off. I ended up having to use a socket extractor to get mine off, and just bought new hardware.

+1 basic tools will be fine for both removal applications

Wes8398 · Mar 31, 2009

The O2 sensor socket is a handy tool to have, but definitely not necessary. I'm pretty sure a 21cm open-ended wrench will do ya fine for the O2's.
I can't suggest anything to ya for the manifold/midpipe bolts 'cause I had a shop put my mid pipe on. I'm actually looking at swapping it again though (myself this time), so I'm going to subscribe here.

If I may, since it applies to this guy's topic, can anyone suggest the extensions/swivels they use to get to the passenger side flange? Lookin' up there, there's not much room at ALL around the starter, k-member, etc, etc and I remember an old thread around here that pointed out the best way to access the bolts...

Willis_98GT · Apr 1, 2009

you'll have a little trouble with the passenger side if i remember.. for some reason you have to work it around the starter. you'll be fine if the car is at least a foot off the ground.

mech4matsnova · Apr 2, 2009

Thanks blown98gt for the gasket info. :thumbsup: Does anyone know what size socket I will need for the manifold flange bolts? I know its gonna have to be a deep well socket with a bunch of extensions and a swivel joint. Also, which way does the gasket face in the header, up toward the head or down toward the midpipe?

glittle75 · Apr 2, 2009

if i remember right they are 15mm, like i said, they are the same size as your oil plug, so if you want to test fit without going all the way up there, test the socket on your oil plug.

and for mine, I used my ratchet setup like this, from the bolt back to the ratchet, socket, then swivel, then extensions long enough to get the socket wrench out in the open under the car. i used 2 - 6 inch extensions then my breaker bar. I used all 1/2" drive tools, its gonna take alot of torque to get them off for the first time. i put a 3 foot "cheater bar" on my breaker bar and work at them for a bit. they will come off though, dont get discouraged. just keep hosing them down with PB Blaster, WD-40, whatever you got.

it worked best for me to put the swivel right on the socket, i tried a couple different setups with the swivel between extensions, but it was just to mu ch play and kept getting off the bolt. so far as the gasket, you'll see it right when you take the midpipe down. i cant remember which way it is off hand, but you can reach it no problem when the midpipe off.

Bluesn95 · Apr 3, 2009

I suggest just going and buying a cheap metric socket set and some swivels and extensions. Harbor has them for cheap. Its either going to be a 15 17 or 18... I think its gonna be a 17