Ford V10 Exhaust Manifold Issues - Need Help!

I’ve been having some trouble with my Ford V10 exhaust manifold lately, and I’m hoping to get some advice from fellow forum members. Here’s the situation:

Background

I own a Ford V10 engine, and recently I’ve noticed a significant change in performance. After some poking around, it seems that there may be some issues with my exhaust manifold. Specifically, I suspect there might be a leak because I can hear a sort of hissing sound when the engine is running. Additionally, I’ve read that broken studs can be a common problem with these manifolds, and I want to avoid any further damage.

Symptoms I’m Experiencing:

  • Hissing sound from the engine compartment
  • Decreased power and performance
  • Increased fuel consumption

What I’ve Tried

I’ve done some preliminary checks:

  • Visual inspection: No obvious cracks were visible, but I’m not sure what to look for.
  • Tightened bolts: Thought it might be a simple fix, but that didn’t help.

Questions:

  • Has anyone else experienced similar issues with their Ford V10 exhaust manifold? What steps did you take to address the problem?
  • Are there any particular signs I should be looking for to diagnose a leak?
  • What are your thoughts on the best replacement parts? Should I go with OEM, or are there aftermarket brands that you trust?

Looking for Insights

I really want to tackle this issue before it leads to more expensive repairs down the road. Any tips, tricks, or experiences you can share would be greatly appreciated! Thank you for any help you can provide.

2 Likes

I’ve had my Ford V10 for years, and cracking of the exhaust manifold has been a persistent problem. Just a heads-up: make sure to check the bolt torque regularly!

It’s crazy how often these manifolds crack! What mileage is yours at? Mine started showing issues around 100k miles.

Warping is also a common issue with these manifolds. I’ve seen it lead to major leaks. Anyone tried using aftermarket manifolds?

Exactly! I had to replace mine after it warped, which cost a pretty penny. I wish they were made of better materials.

Bolt stripping seems to be another headache. A few friends have faced that. Any recommendations for preventing it?

I hear you! Using anti-seize on the bolts helped me a lot! Just remember not to overtighten them.

Does anyone have experience with the EcoBoost replacements? I’ve heard mixed reviews but would love to know if they’re worth it.

I tried one, and honestly, I felt like it boosted my fuel efficiency. But I didn’t note a difference in power! Have you experienced something similar?

I personally think some design flaw exists in these manifolds. I can’t believe the number of problems we’ve all faced. Are we getting decent quality from Ford?

Good point! Some people say they’re designed for the manufacturing process, not longevity. Which is frustrating!

These issues remind me of why I
don’t take my truck on long trips anymore! How many of you have been stranded because of these manifolds?

Haha, I can relate! I had to call a tow truck once. I guess I should’ve checked it before hitting the road!

I’ve been experiencing some exhaust manifold issues on my Ford V10 too. Have you looked into brands like BBK or JBA? They offer some great aftermarket options that could enhance performance significantly.

Yeah, BBK seems popular, but I wonder how it compares with other brands. Any insights on material differences between stainless steel and cast iron? I heard stainless can last longer.

Material plays a big role! Stainless steel is often lighter and more resistant to corrosion, which means better longevity. Cast iron is sturdier but can crack over time. It really depends on what you prioritize.

2 Likes

Thanks for the clarification! Any recommendations on specific models from these brands? I want to ensure I’m choosing something reliable.

I had great results with JBA. They really improved the throttle response on my V10, plus they sound amazing. That’s definitely a solid choice if you need performance boosts.

Glad to hear that! How much of a performance gain did you notice? I’m trying to gauge what to expect.

I’d say I saw around a 10-15% increase in power after installation. It felt like a completely different engine! Don’t underestimate the sound either—it’s a beautiful growl.