Need help with intake and exhaust manifold

[Dartalltheway]

So I was trying to change the gaskets on my 225 /6 and when trying to take the two nuts on the exterior of the exhaust, the two nuts that are on each end of the engine that are supposed to be brass, the studs started to come out with the nuts. I know that the nut must be rusted to pull the stud. But should the stud pull out of the engine and should water leak from there? Any help must appreciated. Trying to get the car on the road before school on monday.

 

[Bulldozer]

no man, you are good. you can pull them out and just run them back in when you are ready. the assembly is easier to put back on if they are in the block because you can hang the parts on the studs. just remember when those come out, there is nothing to support the parts and they will slip down if you arent ready for it.

 

[Dartalltheway]

Well the gasket replacements worked, but now my engine is giving a loud pinging noise. When the car is started something pings like metal to metal, and as I rev the engine it gets louder. Any suggestions?