?Rebuilt Motor Help!!!

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Originally Posted by mirage83

Exhaust manifold leaks aren't unknown on the 7M. In fact, if I remember correctly the relative softness of the head allows the EM studs to back/strip out eventually. That could well be the cause of your exhaust manifold leak. One of the better aftermarket Supra parts suppliers stocks a replacement stud kit for this, works like a charm and is under $100.

Yeah, helicoil kits; Some of which accept the stock studs some come with new studs. BTW - They're a miserable HELL to install with the head still on the engine... I do NOT recommend trying it. Get it in crooked or crack the surrounding metal and you're really hosed. /disclaimer I've never experienced any trouble with a stud pulling out, but it is common. Make sure you don't over torque the studs, it'll help with the longevity and durability of the threads in the head.

Originally Posted by mirage83

And don't let us talk you into or out of anything. We're simply making some observations and presenting our opinions and the reasoning behind them. Only you know your exact situation, how much time & money you're prepared to put into the car.

Agreed.