Can't find my exhaust leak!!

[shooter]

I took the exhaust down a few weekends ago to check for leaks and welded any questionable areas. Didn't look like they would leak but I did anyway. Well that was a waste of time because it still had a leak. So now I just replaced the driver side exhaust manifold and after hours of work I still have the same leak. I just sprayed soapy water on the exhaust hoping for bubbles and nothing again. I am stumped. Does anyone have any suggestions?

[jst2878]

I took off both manifolds, decked them and re installed with new gaskets. Also check pre cat flange

[shooter]

I know I've pm'd you about this before because you gave me the idea of pulling out the wheel well lining to access it.
How the hell did you get the manifolds out to deck em'?

I only went after the driver side and I couldn't get it out. Not enough room, even after taking the driveshaft and flex disc out. I was suprised to see that the gaskets didn't look bad at all. Here's some pics of the adventure and of the old vs new gaskets.

[mysweetx5]

Thanks alot guys!!!
I was kinda wondering where this gaskets goes and specially how could I get access to them. But now, I have some idea due to some great folks like you my friend.

Thanks!!!
01 X5 4.4i

[shooter]

Can anyone please help me with this? I losing my mind with this leak. How do I get the manifold out? I pulled the driveshaft and flexdisc and it still doesn't fit through.

[Nik]

Just interasting, Do you hear? or how do you feel the leak?

[mywidebody02]

the TIS says remove reinforcement plate, exhaust system and propelor shaft and feed through the bottom.