I'm thinking the driver's side down pipe is loose at the connection with the manifold. On a 2.8, how do I access the area where the down pipe bolts on to the manifold? Do I remove the wheel and pull out the plastic wheel well cover?

 

You could do two things:

Your idea would work

Or you could remove the coolant tank and move it to the side and then you should be able to get to the bolts. Hopefully they're aren't torqued down too badly because you'll probably only have enough room for a small box wrench.

when i had to get to the downpipe to replace the flex section i think i ended up doing both of those things just to make my life a little easier

 

They aren't to bad to access underneath. If I remember correctly, two of the three can be gotten through the wheel well (no need to remove the plastic liner), the other will have to go from the top or bottom. All thee can be easily accessed from underneath. Just jack up the car (use jackstands) and there they are.

 

Thanks. I just don't remember the bolts being easy to get at from underneath. I'll take another look.

 

You'll need several extensions from i underneath if you want to make it easier.

 

i just took one off on the car I'm working on, the wheel well works best. I didn't need extensions due to the fact the engine was lowered. incredibly easy. I wouldn't even try from the top