After being turned away by several mechanics, I've decided to replace the head gasket on my D15B7 myself, but I'm stuck on these two 12mm bolts holding the intake manifold to the head. I can't fit a socket or even a ratcheting box wrench around them due to the shape of the manifold. Do I just have to remove the head with the manifold attatched?

 

you need a long extension to go from firewall to back side intake to get to them

 

You can pull the cylinder head with the I/M still attached. It will obviously be heavier this way, but it can be done. In the future, you might consider using a standard box end wrench to loosen all 12mm nuts on the I/M, and a 6-pt. one if you have it, instead of trying to use something like a socket and ratchet or ratcheting wrench.

 

Good luck trying to get those nuts off. Seems like someone already tried.....with a pair of channel lock pliers. lol

 

As someone else mentioned,pull the head with the mani attached.

In the future,Snap-On high performance wenches or similar,easily fit right into that spot.