Exhaust manifold gaskets

I'm off on holiday in a week's time in the van, and have noticed a slight chuffing from the exhaust manifold under load. Presumably just a gasket (of which I have a set). From memory it doesn't look like a big job - undo the bolts to the exhaust, bolts/studs to the head, turbo feed and return pipes and it should be off. I'm slightly worried about a manifold to head stud/bolt snapping, I've never had that happen to me yet so I must be well overdue given all the stories you hear!

Are the manifolds prone to cracking? (It's a 1993 ACL engine). Any other nuggets of wisdom from someone who's done the job before? Obviously lots of penetrating oil...
Should I wait till we get back?!


Edited by mat_the_cat - 16 Jul 10 at 09:35

speaking of exhaust gaskets, anyone got a part number for the gasket which goes between the manifold and the down pipe[?].  i'm thinking of replacing mine too, before i go on my jollydays, as it's about 1% gasket and 99% repair putty at the mo', and leaks like the proverbial...

Hmmm, I do have a history of doing silly things just before a trip - new pistons, barrels and heads and carbs on my bike 2 days before a 2000 mile trip and last year a new head on another vehicle 2 weeks before a 4000 mile charity event round France… But in this case I think I won't tempt fate and I'll wait till we get back!

Thanks for the replies folks and this link may help you Madra.