[mass A man]

OK, the only trouble could arise if you want/ or need to remove the upper toe board. Hot water heater may be in the way. An exhaust leak will virtually never enter the Autolite intake. Think about it. Either at idle or moving, the fan/wind is blowing warm radiator air into the big front air intake ALL THE TIME, ahead of any leaky exhaust port. The cast iron cover fits snugly onto the top of the Autolite manifold, nothing getting in there. The exit duct should be sealed up well enough no C.M. can get through to the passenger compartment. Not trying to "sell" anyone on the crazy Autolite heater but wanted to set the truth here. I have no hot water heater in my way or passenger's feet hitting it. God love the guys that figure it all out with the hot water heater placements.