I'm changing my head gaskets, but stuck at trying to remove the front exhaust pipe from the front cylinder head. Of the three nuts holding it, I can't get one out because the front of the subframe is in the way. I watched a video of someone taking theirs off, and it look like they had no clearance issue. I can't get a deep socket on because of the subframe nor a short one. I can almost get a wrench but it's futile.

Is there something I'm missing on how to get that one nut off?

Thanks

 

drop the subframe?

 

Cut down your deep socket and make it 1/2 deep.

 

you may have to loosen the engine mount bolts and possible raise the engine or tilt it in order to clear the subframe. Look up videos on cat replacement for these cars and you'll see how it's done.

 

Thanks to you all for the tips. What's funny is that I thought to myself I wish I had a shorter socket that's between deep and regular. So I head out to Ace hardware and they had a socket that was the right height! Except, the fucker was 1/4 drive. I figure I'd try anyway. I also removed the right and front engine mounts so that I might make a better angle as one of you suggested. Of course both mounts need to be replaced... again...in less than a year. Wtf.

Anyway.... I broke the 3/8 to 1/4 adapter.... twice before I ran to 4 different stores to find mapp gas (damn pandemic). After heat, lifting engine, and right height socket.... Success!

Thanks again everyone.

 

Hooray!