It not "hard" to do just takes a few hours. The motor doesn't need to come out. I moved a few things like the battery tray, battery and fuse box to make it easier to get my arms in there. I also took out the inner plastic fender well liner. This helps you gain access to the rear manifold bolts and down pipe bolts. The dealer recommended me to replace the manifold too since they are know to warp. Maybe someone with a service manual can send you the pages on replacing the manifold to help you out.