[patrija]

I've read through all the posts I can find on the topic, but thought I'd ask the question anyway.

I have a Southern Automotive 406 and the top header bolt on the Number 8 cylinder is missing. My cylinder numbering maybe off (newbie) ... it's the cylinder closest to the firewall on the driver side. At idle, when I run my hand along the header there is quite a bit of hot air (exhaust) coming out ... and yes, I did get a burn on my hand! It's starting to turn the paint, so it's obviously quite hot.

During deceleration while in gear there's a bit popping in the pipe. When I engage the clutch the popping minimizes. At idle there is a "clanking" at the cylinder / header. Here's my questions:

1) How the heck do you get to that top bolt??? There is no room!

2) Does the "clanking" at idle make sense with the bolt missing or perhaps indicating something else wrong?

3) Is it "safe" to drive without the bolt without damage?

Thanks!
Jason