After changing down pipe & header, i noticed a brace, 2 rubber things one on each side of the pipe. it is located right before it connects to the cat. does anyone know if it hooks on to the heat sheild? I hope not it kind of had to get cut off

 

bump.......no one knows?

 

This is your cat hanger.. it does not connect to the heat shield at all. This brace is used to support the exhaust, and eliminate stress on the flex section of your front pipe.. I do not recommend you remove this, however if you must, try to brace the exhaust somewhere in that vicinity somehow, or else your flex section may wear quite prematurely..
DJ