I thought I had every tool known to man but I can't get a socket onto 
the 7/16 inboard exhaust nut on #2 cylinder. There must be an elegant 
solution out there somewhere... Any suggestions?

Angier,

 

Extremely Cheap 12 pt socket sets (1/4 " drive) are usually shorter and lighter (thinner) than more expensive sets.

 

There are rounded extensions that allow the socket to be at a small angle to the drive or a knuckle (wobble extensions).

 

Also, consider a crow's foot (offset from the drive) although they sometime just don't fit.

 

Then there are open end wrenches - or even "ignition" wrenches that have openings at right angles to the handle. 

 

Maybe a box wrench that's offset from the surface?