Finally started this,
If you are not sure why this is done have a google, there is some thought that when the pre cats break down the engine injests the bits and lunches the engine.
Absolute doddle to remove the exhaust manifold (only took a few minutes), and only sheared one stud between the exhaust and manifold. Used a full hex socket on the manifold to head studs as they looked a bit suspect and will be replaced.
On first inspection the pre cats dont look too bad, although one of them appears to have started to break down in 1 spot. Hopefully once removed the engine will be fine (at least until the project starts :thumbsup:)