> ok, so one nut left to remove on the rear collector and i can't figure
> out how to get to it without removing the water pump and a/c
> compressor.  any thoughts?

I don't think the water pump is in the way so much as the AC compressor.
Looking at through my picture library, I think if you knock that compressor
loose you ought to be able to reach it pretty easily from above.
<http://raq.foodhammer.net/pics/exhaust.JPG>
--
John Bange
'90 Vanagon - "Geldsauger"