I have been very happy with Volvo's exhaust hardware. I've pulled several manifold using nothing more than PB Blaster- all came right off, impressing the hell out of me. Just used normal 3/8 ratchet and 13mm socket, or box wrench. No problems. On the overheated 84 242 I just took apart, 4 studs pulled. I'd be happy reusing the 4 that stayed in the head- they look fantastic.

I don't think you should pull studs just to do it- the factory hardware is pretty darn good. BTW one that I replaced gaskets on recently was an 1988 740, at 215K or so at the time, so I think you should have good luck with yours.

I recommend the copper manifold nuts - I don't remember if you said you bought those too? Use never-seize compound on them to help prevent rusting studs and nuts together.

Also, for really stuck nuts, I break them part way with a chisel. No need usually to cut all the way through, just yield them a little and they usually release. Saves the stud without damage virtually every time.

Good luck!
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Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: '87 244DL/M47- 234K, '82 245T/M46-182K, '84 242DL/AW70-100K, '89 244DL/AW70- 212K and I miss my: 86 244DL 215K, 87 244DL 239K, 88 744GLE 233K, 88 244GL 147K, 91 244 183K