Exhaust Manifold Replacement/EGR Gasket Issues

So....I posted awhile ago about have exhaust manifold issues. Well the SOB cracked again so I returned it for a warranty replacement. This time, however, I replaced my motor mounts. I got the new manifold in, got it hooked up to the exhaust flange pipe, but the damn EGR gasket is incredibly difficult to install. Any tips on aligning the bolts from the egr to the manifold? I can get the bottom bolt to run but the top bolt just won't line up. Same thing happens if I secure the top bolt....bottom won't line up.

 

Not sure of your engine type but on the 3RZ's you would have to loosen the EGR bracket bolt on the back of the block to allow you "wiggle room" for flange alignment. I do stress "Loosen" bolt only since its extremely tight back there and its all by feel, bolt falls out and your cuss vocabulary will grow within a few minutes.

 

My EGR is different because it’s a v6, but I used a sealer on both sides of the gasket that holds it in place and seals it up better too.
I forget the high temp sealer that I used tho, gray in color

 

Go to NAPA with Your bolts and get studs and nuts of same size, thread studs into manifold put on gasket, now the two studs sticking out will act like a mounting perch, You will still have to wrestle it on there but the studs help....a lot, then install the nuts.
Good luck
Andy