I didn't have to. had plenty of clearance. you will need to remove the oil filter and add (after the header is on) a short oil filter (people hate fram filters but I use a PH43) if you don't have a 90 degree adapter. I also use 45 degree spark plug boots on the #5 and #7 plugs. never burned a wire. it was easier for me to just loosen the motor mounts and move the engine around as I needed to get the drivers side on first, then the passenger side went right in. a good tip is to make sure and leave the front and rear exhaust studs in to prevent water leakage and the ability to hang the headers.