2002 Exhaust manifold removal TIPS?????

Hey Guys....

My 2002 Rolla's pins that hold the springs at the exhaust system and manifold have rusted and lost the springs on the right side. The guy at the local muffler shop said the pins would break when trying to remove them and would have to be drilled out before inserting new ones. He quoted me as this being a 4 hour job just to get the pins out!!! So, my thought was to try to replace the exhaust manifold, pins and gasket at a cost of about $100. Has anyone replaced the exhaust manifold that could offer any tips or advice to make the job a little easier?

Thanks for ANY help!
Jackie