I think mine is blowing at start up for and then for a minute or so, the workshop manual says it can be changed with the engine in the car but access must be very restricted.


Has anyone else tried changing it in situ?

 

Many threads here on replacing cylinder heads, and they didn't pull the engine, so it must be possible to replace the gasket.

 

You take the head off with the manifold still on....... Possible doable but a serious PITA!!!

I have studs shear many times but with the head off it is not a problem to drill out and helicoil, good luck doing it in situ.....

 

It would turn out to be an even bigger PITA if it turned out it was not the manifold gasket making the ticking sound.


Anyone else even had a manifold gasket go?

 

There's a number of suspects around that location. It could be:

1. cylinder head to manifold gasket
2. manifold loose (V8 manifolds don't have a history of warping like XJ40 or cracking like X300)
3. manifold to cat gasket
4. loose manifold heat shield
5. loose heat shield mounting bracket

Possibly hear more from underneath with the front of the car on ramps than you can from above.

Graham

 

And if you’re Lucky:

6 the EGR pipe, which is not uncommon to leak like this.

 

First time it's ever been said that it would be good fortune to be the EGR pipe

 

Before removing anything, I would try to tighten the manifold bolts.

 

Thanks for the suggestions guys, I tried to identify with a stethoscope without luck as it only comes on under load and only for less than a minute after a cold start up.


I'll try tightening all the bolts first (other than the head bolts).