Not Your Typical Broken Bolt Problem

[preist]

2002 GMC Sierra 6.0L 4x4 1500: I removed the left side exhaust manifold because it was leaking exhaust around the first and last exhaust ports. Sure enough the first and last bolts were broken which explains the exhaust leaking. The front port bolt body I have drilled out and tapped slightly larger but I don't have enough access to the rear port as it is overlapped by the drivers footwell. See pictures attached to this post. I took a video which shows the challange better but I'm not allowed to upload it.

 

How would a GM mechanic solve this one? Is there a TSB for this situation?

 

I'm considering lifting up the cab so the footwell sheetmetal gets out of the way but that is quite involved I believe...

 

I'm also wondering if someone knows of a short drill bit that could mount directly to my air ratchet that would fit in the small space. Ultimately I need to drill for a 3/8" tap.

 

Thanks for the help.

[Stevens03]

Short of pulling the block..

[Alljackedup408]

my buddies did the same thing.. i ended up pulling the head off and removing the bolt.... its a good days worth of work! hope all goes well.