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So I got some exhaust manifold gaskets for my '69 but there's a problem...

The bolt heads are warped or something because we can't get a wrench or socket to fit on them. We've tried a 13, too tight. 14, too loose...tried some various standard sizes too and none fit...

The only option I can think of doing is pulling the engine so I can get a vice grip on them or something. Any other suggestions?

It is definitely NOT metric! I hope you haven't rounded them off...

no we couldn't get anything to fit on them anyways. It looks almost like someone tried to force a small socket or something on them and warped the bolt heads...The only way to get them out that I can see will be to put some vice grips on them

The bolt heads probably have a bit of rust build up. I'm not at home, so I can't check for you, but they are probably 9/16ths. You should be able to get the socket on with a tap from a hammer. Use a 6pt, not 12pt.

Bolt heads dont "warp" they get rounded off or corroded. Also some early engines used a washer under the bolt head that gets bent up around the head bolt to lock them in place. That type of washer would keep any socket from fitting unless the little bent tangs were flattened. And yes your car has NO metric bolts.

Use heat. If your bolt head has rusted or rounded it has probably also has corrosion holding it. Use a acetelyne torch or a Bernzamatic ( not sure of spelling ) with propane to heat the head of the bolt. Don't get it too hot, it will twist off. Heating the head will enlarge the head some, so it will fit your wrench / socket better. It will also make the corrosion pliable.

nice. we did try heating it with a torch but to no avail...might give it another shot tomorrow when I go to work on the car. Thanks for the advice

If you have figured out what socket fits tightly, use an impact gun. The bolts will spin right out.