Hey guys I just put in a Engine from another blazer and I am hevin gsome trouble installing the Exhaust Manifold Bolts.
My model is a 4.3L V6 1996.

Where I am stuck: I have one side of the engine and manifold bolts started with the gaskets installed as well. When I went to the PAssenger Side to bolt in the 6 bolts there Im having a bit of resistance. I can put in the First two (Closest to the front of the engine) and i had yo pull the manifold towards the front of the engine in order to thread the next 2 bolts in.
Here is where i am stuck, I CANNOT thread the last 2 bolts in to get them started. these are the bolts on the passenger side closest to the firewall.

I read somehwere where i can buy a Exhaust Manifold Spreader, i feel as if this tool will not help me as I need to move the manifold closer to the front rather than spread it "towards the back".

Can someone plsase help me, I cannot get the last 2 Bolts in and I only need to put these in to continue putting my engine together. thank you!

 

have you tried threading em in without the manifold to make sure the threads arent stripped?