I have an XA with 100k that I drive back and forth to work about five miles every day. The original exhaust started leaking and I took it somewhere to get it replaced and they wanted $2200. I priced the parts and am going to do it myself. The spring bolts are very corroded and I'm thinking that it might be easier to take the manifold off and remove the spring bolts on the bench. I'd appreciate any advice from anyone who has done this. Thanks very much.

 

Just spray those bolts with PB Blast or Liquid Wrench and let them soak for about 30 mins before attempting to loosen. They'll come out without too much drama. I found that having a 2 foot extension for my 1/2" drive socket going in from under the lifted car (on ramps and blocks or lift) was pretty easy on 1st gen xB.