Didn't seem to matter too much. If I had to thread a wayward stud through the exhaust manifold while putting the head on it wasn't a bit issue.

Once the exhaust bolts are installed on the last car I did this, the head wouldn't align with the block until I lifted on the exhaust with a floor jack under the car.

I found it easier to attach exhaust first then wrestle the head onto the block using the alignment sleeves it will lock into place.

__________________
2011 E70 • N55 (me)
2012 E70 • N63 (wife)