Wife is gonna kill me

[2kvert]

Sorry if it's long , please bare with me.
i overhauled my engine last year, 97 4.3 this year was having trouble. Found a dead cylinder and then a cracked head and bad valve.
Replaced the head but couldn't get it running right and was getting water in the oil.
Built a new engine. Started to pull the old one tonight and found water in the exhaust port.
I hadn't considered the manifolds before now, not sure why.
I'm thinking maybe that was the cause. I have the 1 piece style which from reading seems that I should swap. WOW a grand or more.
Can I swap these without replacing the bellows and rubber parts?.
Is there a less expensive route?
I hate the thought that I've built a new motor already and now need to spend that much more on exhaust
Thanks

 

[QBhoy]

Think you’re right in thinking this might have been your cause of the problem to start with.
you wouldn’t need to change the rubber sleeve between the riser and cow horn down pipe if that’s what you mean. Do both sides would be the advice for sure.

 

[Rick Stephens]

If you have water in oil, always pressure test at least the block before assuming anything. And then test the manifolds - they are easier to test than you might think. Need to fill the water jacket with acetone, see if it seeps into the exhaust passage. Need to get rid of the batwings for sure though.