I would like to get the heat shield off my exhaust manifold only thing is I can't. I have taken off the three bolts that hold it on and I can't seem to get it out. It feels like its too snug up front by the ac line and too snug on the right side. Also will it just come off with just unplugging the sensor on the bottow? Anyone dealt with this problem?

 

replacing it with an aftermarket header?? or just wanting to paint it?

 

Im trying to paint it but eventually gonna put in headers and would be good to know.