### Tools Needed:
1. **Socket set** (metric, including 10mm, 12mm, and 14mm sockets)
2. **Torque wrench**
3. **Gasket scraper or razor blade**
4. **Pry bar or flathead screwdriver**
5. **Torque angle gauge** (if required)
6. **Shop towels or rags**
7. **Engine degreaser**
8. **Safety goggles**
9. **Gloves**
10. **Replacement exhaust gaskets** (OEM recommended)
11. **Anti-seize compound** (optional for bolt threads)

### Safety Precautions:
1. **Disconnect the battery** to avoid electrical shorts.
2. **Wear safety goggles** to protect your eyes from debris.
3. **Use gloves** to protect your hands from sharp edges and hot surfaces.
4. **Work in a well-ventilated area** to avoid inhalation of exhaust fumes.
5. **Let the engine cool down** before starting the work to prevent burns.

### Step-by-Step Procedure:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle
- Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

#### Step 2: Remove Engine Components
- Depending on your vehicle layout, you might need to remove components obstructing access to the exhaust manifold, such as the intake manifold, heat shields, or turbocharger (if equipped).
- Use the socket set to remove these components, ensuring to keep track of bolts and parts.

#### Step 3: Access the Exhaust Manifold
- Once the obstructing components are removed, locate the exhaust manifold.
- Use the socket wrench to remove the bolts securing the exhaust manifold to the engine block.

#### Step 4: Remove the Old Gasket
- Carefully pull the exhaust manifold away from the engine block.
- Use a gasket scraper or razor blade to remove any remnants of the old gasket from both the manifold and engine block surfaces. Ensure the surfaces are clean and free of debris.

#### Step 5: Install the New Gasket
- Position the new exhaust gasket on the engine block, aligning it with the bolt holes.
- Make sure it’s seated properly without any folds or misalignment.

#### Step 6: Reinstall the Exhaust Manifold
- Carefully place the exhaust manifold back onto the engine block.
- Hand-tighten the bolts to secure the manifold in place.

#### Step 7: Torque the Bolts
- Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually found in the service manual). Generally, start at the center and work outward in a crisscross pattern.
- If specified, use a torque angle gauge to complete the torque process.

#### Step 8: Reassemble Components
- Reinstall any components that were removed earlier, including the intake manifold, heat shields, and turbocharger.
- Ensure all bolts are torqued to specification.

#### Step 9: Reconnect the Battery
- Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.

#### Step 10: Test the Installation
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check for any exhaust leaks or unusual noises.

### Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- **Not cleaning the surfaces thoroughly**: Old gasket material can lead to leaks if not properly removed.
- **Overtightening bolts**: This can cause warping of the manifold or damage to the threads.
- **Forgetting to reconnect any components**: Double-check your work to ensure everything is reconnected properly.
- **Using the wrong gasket**: Always verify the part number and ensure you have the correct replacement part.

### Replacement Parts:
- Always use high-quality replacement gaskets, preferably OEM, to ensure longevity and a proper seal. Additional parts may include new bolts or nuts if they are corroded or damaged.

### Conclusion:
Following this detailed procedure will help you successfully replace the exhaust gasket on a Nissan YD22DDTI. Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific torque specifications and detailed diagrams.
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