SE turbo removal...worst car I've worked on. A guide for others.

[Danny]

As the title says I can't think of another car over the past 50 or so years that has been as difficult as this. Unlike your typical Japanese car, I don't think there was much thought about servicing when it was developed. Probably a result of the SE coming out at the end of the NB production. There is just no room to access the various fasteners so I feel like I'm chasing my tail removing stuff to access a bolt or nut.

I've done this job a couple of times and think I now have it worked out. So for others here's how I do it.

Remove everything to get clear access to the manifold and turbo.
Remove dump pipe and studs.
Remove the exhaust studs or as many and can be accessed. I've fitted ones now with slots so I can use a screwdriver for future removal. There are allen key exhaust studs available too.
Remove the two outside studs of the turbo to exhaust flange. The two inner ones can remain. The front one inner stud is virtually impossible to remove anyway.
Loosen the two coolant and one oil feed on the turbo and the solid pipe one on the block.
Remove the turbo support shield.
Now if you're lucky there might be enough movement to lift the manifold off. Don't stress the turbo too much or the drain concertina section might get fractured.

I did refrain from excessively cursing the car. I guess it's because it's so much fun to play with. (There are relationships that can identify with that trait.)

I'd be interested to learn if there's a better way to do this job. Cheers

[greenMachine]

Timely! I can see this job in my near future.

Thanks Danny, be interested to hear others' experience, or of other resources on this. I have not yet done any research on the exercise, and would appreciate any shortcuts that others have found.

[The Zork]

Yes, bugger of a job. 6 hours straight and be very creative with your tool combinations.

The two m8 nuts at the turbo oil return/block were the most fun. Almost imposible to see/get to. I had to make up a long rachet extension and then one click at a time.

[StanTheMan]

That's a big statement claiming it is more difficult to work on than a Morris Cooper S.

however Ive not worked on an SE so I cants say either way....but maybe ypou can. LOL

[Roadrunner]

Timely! I can see this job in my near future.

and would appreciate any shortcuts that others have found.

Best shortcut - Pay someone else to do it
Some jobs are not worth the anguish

[greenMachine]

... food for thought

[bigdog]

It’s actually just as quick to remove the engine and then take the manifold off - that was my experience with the SP anyway. Less stressful too

[StanTheMan]

Omg !!!!! LOL


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[Red_Bullet]

OMG, it sounds worse than changing either
1. Engine mount
2. Oil filter

3 Bastard thing!