So one of the studs on my exhaust manifold is stripped and I believe its the reason behind the horrible exhaust leak I have. Due to the location of the stud I know its receives a lot of heat and stress. How would I go about removing the bolt, and would a local hardware store carry a replacement stud? I've heard about helicoils but not to familiar with them, would they be a good idea for this situation? Thanks guys.

i'd try PB blaster on it, let it soak for about 10 mins, spray again, 10 more minutes, then try visegrips to get it to screw out.

are referring to the studs on the bottom where the downpipe bolts up? what part stripped, the stud itself or the manifold?

If the stud stripped, you can replace the stud with a bolt of the same threads.

If the manifold stripped, just buy a nut and bolt and bolt it back together. You could drill and tap it but its a lot of work for little reward considering you can get a manifold for less than 30.00 used.

Terry

Just the stud is stripped. I tried re-threading it but to no avail.

Thanks for the tip on the PB blaster, I'll give that a try.

then remove the Stud and just use a bolt.

if there is enough threads to put two nuts on it with the manifold off, do that. then wrench on the one closest to the head to get it out.

I had that same problem, I just took it to a weld shop and they removed the stud and now there is a bolt. Easy fix, only cost 10 dollars. I suggest you find a non corporate shop... They will charge a small amount compared to a big shop.