I have noticed over the last couple weeks I am developing a leak at the exhaust manifold on one of my motors... I hear a ticking that seems to be coming from the bottom of the manifold toward the back... What am I getting into in trying to pull the riser and manifold and replacing that gasket. Its on the outside manifold of the port engine so it looks like it would be a lot easier than changing an inside one...

any input or guidance would be much appreciated? How many hours do you think a shop estimates this at?

Depends on what kind of manifold you have. But its a pretty simple fix. Remove manifold, install new gasket, re-install, done.

Its a Gil I believe.... here is a picture of it from last year with the blower removed.... will I be able to just pull the old gasket off and stop at an Oreilley or autozone to pick one up? I'm guessing the muffler and the riser will have to come off first?