'69 396/325

Car was built in California. Has pump, all piping/hoses/valves, with inlets still in exhaust manifold. I don't need the air pump (doubt it works anyway), and it would clean up the engine look if it goes away. I don't have a concours type of car by any stretch of the imagination....

I'd like to remove, but can't get at least half of the bolts to release from the manifold. I've done the penetrating oil, etc. It's been suggested that i simply cut the metal lines, and then put a 6 pt socket over them and they'll release. Obviously the downside of that is the original pieces are destroyed.

Questions: 1.) Any other suggestions on getting them out without cutting? I could put all in a box and save if possible. Would heat help or hurt effort?

2.) Am I killing "value" over time if I lose the original pieces via cutting? I know they are available aftermarket, but aftermarket pieces are becoming more of a disappointment with each shipment receipt.

thanks for any help.

The best way to get those pipenuts free is to heat around them and use a line wrench. The easiest way is to snip off the pipe and use a 6-point socket, but then they're obviously destroyed. Hey, what would you use them for anyway? Good luck.

Buy some Headers. and take the whole system off manifolds and all.