Exhaust manifold removal question

[nsx24]

I have a quick question with removing the stock exhaust manifolds, (I am replacing them with topspeed headers ) do I need to remove the the o2 sensors to get access to the bolts? Or can i get around them? I will be replacing the o2 sensors when I put the headers on, I am just worried about how hard it will be to remove a 21 year old sensor.
Thanks in advance

 

[Larry Bastanza]

If you have stock manifolds, the front one will be tough to get off without removing the sensor, due to the fact there is a heat shield that requires removal to get access to the head bolts. If you distort the shape and tug alot you can get it off, but 02 sensor removal make is really easy.

Now if you cannot get the sensor out, tug wiggle distort the shape and the shield will come off. I have had to do this a then use an impact gum the get the 02 sensor out of the manifold on the bench.

HTH,
LarryB

 

[whrdnsx]

And be careful when handling the heatshields they are razor sharp.
Those O2 sensors don't like coming out easily either.