Portugue

Hello. I need to replace the Resonator assembly pipe (the resonator blew out along the seam). I have the whole pipe, however the flange against the catalytic converter have long studs on either side that tighten the two together. The nuts are rusted so bad I can't even get a socket on the end, not even a vice grip. I'm not sure if its just that deteriorated (120k) or if its special nut or something. Anyone have any advice on removing them, tips? hints? My last resort is to torch them off, but I'm afraid since they are studs I don't want to hurt the cat at all. Thanks in advance!

Joey

Rood

iTrader: (15)

I had that issue when installing my test pipe. I needed to get them torched off.. It made no affect on my cat.

Mr. Brett

iTrader: (7)

Sounds like they've just been demolished by the elements. When I had my catback put on, I had to have one of the studs torched off as well. Didn't hurt my cat at all. Just make sure that if/when it's torched you aim AWAY from the inside of the cat.

Portugue

Thanks guys! Is it threaded through the cat though? In other words, does the cat flange have threads in it to screw the stud through it? It looks so bizarre under there due to the rusting, all I see is a bolt with no head going through the flange.

Did you guys work the bolt out, or cut it off? I assume you just used a stand bolt and nut after?

CMax03

iTrader: (3)

Use a larger Vise grip to remove the nut and stud, drill thru the cat flange and fit with nuts and bolts (stainless steel only and antiseize), as far as the resonator you can purchase the Bosal exhaust system from NAPA! Or if you want more performance than go aftermarket....Cattman is a good start!

Mr. Brett

iTrader: (7)

Well, those studs are tougher than they look. We tried to break it after it got hot, but we ended up having to work it back and forth until it slid free. As far as threaded flanges on the cat, I don't believe there were any. Make sure you use anti-seize, like mentioned, and get yourself a set of bolts that won't rust up. Especially if you're going to be dealing with a lot of salt and snow.

Portugue

Well that wasn't fun at all! We ultimately had to use the torch to chop the studs off on the resonator side of the flange. Then get the flange apart (obviously without damaging anything). That left a little bit of exposed stud on either side of the cat flange, we torch it until red hot and worked the bolts out. Replace with new gasket and resonator pipe assembly and we're good to go! Took about 1.5 hrs which wasn't too bad. I was amazed at how deteriorated it was down there, but like I said, 130k in new england!

CMax03

iTrader: (3)

So what kind of resonator did you go with?

Portugue

I just went with the resonator pipe assembly at a local autoparts store. Not sure if this has anything to do wth it, but the exhaust has a much deeper tone now. Sounds good! lol

bigpopaj369

iTrader: (2)

how much did u pay bro????

Portugue

it was 120 for the part.