How hard is it to replace the water/coolant pipe that runs behind the engine?
Mine is starting to rust near the outlet on the driver's side rear.

I already have a good spare to put in but it doesnt look like it's gonna be an easy job.
In fact, it looks like a PITA!

Suggestions? (other than dropping the cradle)

Thanks, Kit / 86 GT / 90 Reatta Coupe

Having put it all back together with the engine and cradle out of the car, I would say it would be a major PITA. One thing I know for sure, if you have AC, the upper AC compressor bracket needs to come off to get the pipe off, and needs to be put on AFTER the pipe when it's going back together. Ask me how I know

Won't be easy with the engine in the car.

I did it on my automatic formula... If you have AC, yes, the upper bracket needs to come off. It's easier than dropping the cradle, especially if you have to remove the compressor and tie it up with the car so you don't open up the AC lines. As you may know, the pipe is anchored at two places -- up by the dipstick and down by the transmission. While not an easy job, it's doable without dropping the cradle

Just a few notes on my experiences with a 88 GT with auto.
Don't forget to disconnect the plastic wire wire clip on the coolant pipe holding the large wire bundle.
I had the car apart replacing the exhaust gaskets, so the AC bracket was loose. I ended up lifting out the exhaust Y-pipe giving more room to maneuver the coolant pipe. The bracket on the driver's side of the coolant pipe kept getting in the way. I dropped the pipe out the bottom on the passenger's side. I did not try pulling it out from the top, but it seems that hoses and cables would need to be disconnected.

Not as hard as you think Kit.

By jacking up the car and removing the rear cradle bolts (and disconnect a few odds and ends, loosen brake lines from the frame, vacuum hoses, ground strap, mud guards, water pump hose, etc.) the cradle will drop down a few inches and hang on the dog bone. This makes access to the pipe easy as pie.

You need a jack, two good jack stands (placed in front of the cradle on the frame rails), and a few hand tools. Takes about 2.5 hours to do the whole job.

Thanks for all the replies guys.....I'm going to do this project... but during the winter after the car show season is over.

Thanks again, Kit / 86 GT / 90 Reatta