Pesky exhaust manifold studs

[Kunz, Bob]

Hello all!

It was time to fix the exhaust manifold gasket leak on cylinders 1 and 2 and of course each had one of the studs broken off inside the block. I've gotten one out; will begin working on the other but now a new question.

Should I take out the existing "good" studs and replace them? The risk I see is they will break off as I remove them causing me more work vs. leaving as is and having them break off in the next few years. Any opinions on which way to go? Parts not an issue since I have all new studs, washers and copper nuts.

Particulars... This is an '86 5Ks Avant (KZ engine), yes it's a FWD. Has 175K miles.

Thanks!

--bob

'86 5Ks Avant
'99 A6 Avant
'02 TTQR
'06 Q7 4.2P