Exhaust manifold Gasket replacement.. How difficult?

[Sirocco20348]

I am cringing at what is involved.... Am I correct with the following...

Dump pipe disconnected
Turbo to be removed

What is the best way to approach the 12 exhaust manifold bolts? Access from above, or below? Remove subframe for access?

Just out of curiosity, can the turbo and exhaust manifold be x-rayed for cracks?? Our is a visual inspection sufficient?

Is there anything else I should do while all this stuff is out?

[h100vw]

The head to manifold gasket has blown. Not seen that yet myself. Sure its not the turbo to manifold??

[Sirocco20348]

The head to manifold gasket has blown. Not seen that yet myself. Sure its not the turbo to manifold??

Gavin, I wish you were still around in Brisbane.

The turbo to manifold gasket was replaced when the k03s went on, well I assume it was. Does this gasket fail easily? How do I test?

[h100vw]

The bolts can back out and then with the reduced clamping, the gasket blows. See if you can have a look with a mirror and catch it blowing

[Sirocco20348]

Well I replaced the turbo to manifold gasket and guess what, the old one was in perfect condition.....

Still maxing out at 15psi (STAGE 2 should be peaking at 21 psi) and stinks of exhaust fumes at WOT...

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[h100vw]

Remove a spark plug and drop a teaspoon of oil into the cylinder. Plug back in and have someone start the car. If there's a leak. It'll blow smoke briefly and show you any leak.
I'm thinking maybe the cat is blocked.