Dave,
Here's something you might consider doing. Remove all the studs from the
block, and use grade-5 bolts to hold the manifolds on. Just something to
think about.
Rich - Ashburn, VA
-----Original Message-----
From: David Stark [mailto:DavidS@ci.hayward.ca.us]
Sent: Monday, June 17, 2002 1:45 PM
To: dakota-truck@dakota-truck.net
Subject: DML: Broken Exhaust Manifold Bolts
Greetings.
I'm new to this list but I've scanned the archives and see there has been
some discussion of this topic.
Here's the deal. I have a 1997 Dakota with a 6 cyl engine. About two
months ago I discovered the middle exhaust manifold bolt on the left side of
the engine had sheared off flush with the block. An independent repair shop
extracted the bolt, retapped the hole and made a new stud. The bill came to
about $200 which I thought was a bargain for the pain in the a** for doing
this kind of job. (Note, I first took it to the dealer and they basically
shook their heads and made expensive noises.)
Last weekend I discovered ANOTHER manifold stud (this one is on the right
side of the engine) is sheared off. So. . .this time I called Dodge to see
if there was any recall/TSB action regarding this issue. The Dodge reps I
spoke with were super cool. They claim that there's isn't any recall/TSB
info but that they started a "Consumer Advocate File" on this problem. The
Dodge rep told me if they issued a recall that I would be reimbursed for the
work that was done to fix the problem.
Bottom line: If anyone else has had to deal with this issue, I suggest you
let Dodge know and, hopefully, they issue some official proclamation that
may help take the sting out of what (for me) will be almost $500 worth of
band-aids for their poor engineering. Let me know if you have any questions
or want more information.
Finally, if there is another cause for these studs shearing off (i.e.,
poorly supported exhaust system) please let me know.
Ciao.
- Dave Stark, Pleasanton CA
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