ModifiedA4

i used antisize on the bolts (when specified), and proper torque setting. i havent retightened anything since my k04 installation 2years ago. (and i removed my exhaust manifold during the install too)

Solaris

PS - You need to update your CAPS time in your sig

ModifiedA4

it should be ok. but now some of the preload of the manifold-turbo bolts will go into fighting the cat.

use anti-sieze on the new manifold-turbo bolts, torque to spec, and fully tighten the bracket bolt last and it should be ok.

if you are tightening the manifold-turbo botls and they reach torque spec before being fully clamped, then you have to break the cat bolts (which really shouldnt be a problem).

Solaris

is antiseize the "G 052 112 A3" mentioned in the diagram from your write-up?

ModifiedA4

yup.

Solaris

thanks. The turbo moved around pretty easily once I got the manifold and mount bolts out

Solaris

I loosened everything back up. Torqued the manifold to turbo bolts, then tightened up the cat, then the mount bolt. It sounds like it might be worse now. I guess I compromised the gasket. I used Seafoam a couple times to see where the leak might be and all I can see is smoke coming from under the manifold right by the turbo. Like that corner nearest the manifold is what's leaking. I'm going to break it all down next weekend, completely remove the cat, and just replace both gaskets. I should probably lightly sand the gasket surfaces, too. This is a pain in the ***.

Solaris

coated both sides of the gasket with that Permatex spray-a-gasket copper seal. Made specifically for exhaust and turbos. Lightly sanded both gasket surfaces and had everything loose when I torqued down the turbo to the manifold. I simply can't believe I've gone through all this and still have a leak in the same place. I'm going to order a turbo to cat gasket and keep my fingers crossed.