Hopefully you guys aren't tired of answering all the questions I have regarding head removal! You have certainly helped a lot so far, as has the search feature.

Anyway, here goes with another that is puzzling me: How do you get access to the top rear AC compressor bolt? I need to get the PS bracket off, but to do this the AC compressor needs to be moved slightly to improve access. It looks like I need to send a 12 inch monkey in there just to get to the darn thing! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> I'm sure some of you have done it though, so what's the secret?? As usual, thanks for any advice!! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

Yup, this is double jointed midget country.

It can be done with either an open ended box wrench or a 12+ extension on the socket so you can come from it from behind.

Good Luck,
Michael

Thanks Michael! Any tips on how exactly to get the open end wrench on?....ie up from underneath, in from the side, etc...? I tried to get an open end on it last time I was home working on the truck, and really didn't see any way to do it<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" /> There must be some angle or method that works, but I still don't know what it is. If I don't have any luck with the open end I will buy some extra extensions and try that method. Maybe a universal socket, too?

The vehicle is at my parents house, 3 hours from where I live, so unfortunately I can't go out and fiddle with it whenever I want too...just trying to figure stuff out now so things will (hopefully) <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shiner.gif" alt="" /> go more smoothly the next time I get a chance to go at it again!

I would go through the wheelwell. Clearance will be tigher without a bodylift, but it should be possible. This is one of those cases where it is pretty much a custom approach. Do whatever works. If you really can't get to it, pull that stud out of the head and the head will lift up with the bracket in place.

You might even be able to get a wobble socket on the lower PS bracket bolt and clear the A/C pump without removing it. It will have to be a short socket, as there is zero clearance in there. But, I don't know.

Good Luck,
Michael

Gentlemen,
I'm at this point as well, was just successfull removing the stud with a pair 'o nuts at the top of the power steering pump bracket. I should now be able to remove the head and leave the bracket in place? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" />

Sounds good Michael, I will give your advice a try next time I get to work on it (probably next weekend). Thanks!

Don, could you elaborate on how you got that stud out with a pair of nuts? I'm hoping I won't need to do that, but would like to learn about what's involved in case I do!

Cory,
It was A LOT easier than removing the AC.... Put two nuts on the stud, and tighten them against each other using a pair of wrenches. Then, using both wrenches, back the stud out. For me, it popped out first time. 30 second evolution...
Note-There is a spacer, about an inch long, behind the bracket, or more accurately between the bracket and the head. I didn't notice it until I pulled the head, and it fell into cylinder number 1,...