in response to my own question...no.
the exhaust manifold bolt threads are only in the cylinder heads, with a smooth shaft through the headers (exhaust manifold). I found that out today when I got the heads out of the truck today.
drivers side head is cracked at front of the engine.
any recommendations about which cleaner? method i should use for all these parts that are covered with sludge?
i also noticed that under the water pump there is white/ yellowish sediment around the crank pully. is this a symptom of bad gasket, cracked pump housing, etc...?