This Topaz has the 2.3 engine with FI and the cracked exhaust manifold needs to be replaced. I'd like to know if anyone has experience in removing the manifold and can tell me definitively if the exhaust manifold can be removed without removing the intake manifold as outlined in one set of removal instructions I read. It looks like it might be possible to remove the four top exhaust manifold bolts without taking off the intake system, but I don't know about the rest of the operation.

Yes it is possible but a whole lot easier to remove the intake first or pull the head off.The bolts wear with age and may be tight . goodluck