The 2.6 is known for cracked exhaust manifolds. To give the manifold a better chance of surviving without cracking, it would be wise to cut the webbing between the cylinders then have the gasket surface planed at a machine shop. That'll give the runners the chance to expand and contract individually which will put less stress on the rest of the manifold.

95 Montero SR
3.8 MIVEC, Advance headers, 2 1/2" exhaust, Magnaflow muffler, OME shocks & rear springs, 2" body lift, 3" tank lift, 4.90s, TRE front locker, factory rear locker, Roger Brown Rock Sliderz, 315/75r16 (35") tires, Sport big brakes