Hello everyone,
I have a 1989 T2 and I recently blew the gasket between the turbo and the exhaust manifold. My question for you guys is whats the easiest way to replace this gasket? It looks as if I go from the top I will have to remove everything to get to the manifold. I dont have access to a lift to go from underneath. I could also jack up the car as well, but I am just trying to figure out the most logical way as well as easiest way to get this done.

I did search the forums for this issue but I did not have any luck with it. I also looked up the FSM and there is nothing in those that give me any information on it as well... All help would be really appreciated!
Thanks Everyone

 

you don't need a lift to get it off but you will need to jack up the car to remove the downpipe from the turbo. the turbo will have to come out through the top of the engine bay so remove everything off of the passenger side of the engine to give it room to come out.

check the manifold for severe cracks while it is off, that is usually the reason why the gaskets blow out. if a crack goes all the way across the sealing surface you will need to replace it otherwise a new gasket(pricey!) will be short lived.

 

ok, so as far as remove everything are you talking about the Upper and lower intake manifolds as well? Also will i need to drain my coolant and everything in order to replace the gasket?
Thanks for your help RotaryEvolution

 

nope, leave the manifolds intact. you will need to remove the ACV and smog pump, turbo intake duct/AFM/stock airbox, disconnect the turbo oil/coolant lines, small rats nest on the passenger side, remove the turbo heat shields and the downpipe. that will give you full access to the turbo. the coolant will also need to be drained but the engine oil can remain.

 

ok sweet! Thank you so much! that was alot of help! if I have any other questions would it be ok to just pm you?

 

sure