96 850 turbo Can I pull head w. manifolds attached?

[JimBee]

On exhaust side of engine what's the minimum disconnecting needed to lift off the head with bolts out and other connections off?

[erikv11]

One thing you can do is disconnect the manifolds from the head, but leave them in the car. I haven't done it, but have seen several experienced people claim it is a great way to go to save you some hassles.

[JimBee]

I wondered about that, but how would I pull the ex. manifold from the studs w/o unbolting the down pipe?
It also occurred to me that if I had the turbo off I could replace the gaskets, washers, etc., with the whole assembly on the work bench. What do you think?

[rspi]

[pr0t0n29]

When I pulled my head I left the exhaust manifold in place. I just undid the nuts that held it to the head, and pretty much all of them took the studs out with them, so then once the head was loose I just pulled forwards and up.

[rspi]

I always leave the manifold in the car. Next time I'm going to price new manifold studs.

[JimBee]

This summer I replaced the exhaust manifold on my '96 850 n/a and all the nuts came off without much resistance, leaving the studs in place, so I just used them. Since I was changing out the header, the down pipe was disconnected so bolting up the new manifold to the head was easy. I can see how it would be easier to slip the head from the block and bring it forward and out with no studs in the way. But if they stay in the head then what?

I have a '96 turbo that might need a head gasket. I'd like to remove as little as possible if I pull the head, so if both manifolds could stay on wouldn't that simplify it? Plus I wouldn't have to mess with the turbo. That seems like an attractive option—if it's an option. I have a helper so the weight wouldn't be a problem.

Suggestions?