Problem removing intake manifold

[wagon-r]

After a year of research (much of it on CB7tuner.com) and buying parts (I don't have a lot of free time), I have finally started my engine build. I have run into two problems, which I am posting separately to avoid confusion.

This is the embarrassing question. I have removed all of the bolts, wires, and hoses from the intake manifold and it is loose, but there isn't enough clearance to actually remove it from the vehicle.

Anyone have this problem? Do I need to remove the top row of studs on the cylinder head?

[dj_ender]

Never had that problem. Did you remove the bottom brace?

[92smokeaccord]

i had that problem on a accord one time it was actually due to the back motor mount being bad and it wasnt sitting completely forward.

[wagon-r]

Manifold brace wasn't there. And the exhaust manifold brace was broken and the downpipe brace wasn't bolted on. I have the feeling that someone may have done an engine swap or something in the past, although it is the same engine as the original.

In any case, the manifold is completely loose. I push it backwards and forwards, but I can't get it to clear the studs in the cylinder head.

I'll check the engine mounts.

[dj_ender]

If it's an A6 you could just remove the plenum, but you might need a new gasket after that...

Edit... you could try unbolting the top bolt on the torque mount, then try rocking the engine forward to gain clearance.

[illinois_erik]

is it only the a6s manifold that splits? this a1 im about to drop out the car, its manifold was in half (bought as a roller) but it has IPT stickers on it so i guess thats not stock; OP even with just intakes bottom half attached it was tight. but as others have suggested motor mounts, even if you had to and wouldnt be too complicated is to d/c the front dogbone and use a floor jack with a piece of wood somewhere on the bottom backside of the motor, you can persuade about 2 inches w/o the dogbone and not break anything

[wagon-r]

If it's an A6 you could just remove the plenum, but you might need a new gasket after that...

Great suggestion. I had it out in 5 minutes.

Of course, its one of those things where I kick myself for not thinking of it myself. Oh, well, I guess I'm too old and to tired to be thinking clearly.

[dj_ender]

is it only the a6s manifold that splits? this a1 im about to drop out the car, its manifold was in half (bought as a roller) but it has IPT stickers on it so i guess thats not stock; OP even with just intakes bottom half attached it was tight. but as others have suggested motor mounts, even if you had to and wouldnt be too complicated is to d/c the front dogbone and use a floor jack with a piece of wood somewhere on the bottom backside of the motor, you can persuade about 2 inches w/o the dogbone and not break anything

Yes, only the A6 is in 2 pieces. The A1 and A4 are a one piece IM.

Great suggestion. I had it out in 5 minutes.

Of course, its one of those things where I kick myself for not thinking of it myself. Oh, well, I guess I'm too old and to tired to be thinking clearly.

It's all good, glad I could help.

[Granite CB7]

Slightly OT but the single runner a1/a4 IM are 2 pieces just like the a6 for example.

http://www.hondaautomotiveparts.com/...NIFOLD+%281%29

[dj_ender]

Derp, you're right. Massive sleep deprivation.... I should sleep now.