I installed a new cat-back exhaust this spring and I'd like to store the OEM but cannot separate the muffler pipe and the muffler for the life of me! Also the screw is rusted so badly can't tell what it is hex, allan etc. (See pic) Tried wd-40, liquid wrench and brute force, the Exhaust U-Clamp bolts are off and the U-Clamp move freely. Is that little screw hold this thing together, It looks that way to me as the pipe is slotted at that point.


Thanks, I just want to get this packed away.



Screw???

 

put lots of pb blaster

then twist

 

^ What he said. It's not a screw, it's just a stud, twist and pull.

 

I also had A LOT of trouble with a friend's. I used almost can of penetrating lube and that thing wouldn't budge. I hit it with a mallet and just ended up bending stuff. So we managed to fit the exhaust in his 8 and it's still in one piece. Oh and this went on for a few days... same routine.

 

Rusted parts can create such a strong bond after a long time. Another alternative is to use a small propane torch to heat up the outside (MAKE SURE you do not have flammable fluid on that pipe first) and then it may come off easier.

 

Thanks, as long as It's not a screw. I'll just keep working on it. Took me forever just to get the bolts off the U-clamp, this is what one Canadian winter does, thank God I store it now. I'll try the propane torch next, it been off for at least 4-6 weeks so it nothing flammable left in it.

 

I know what you mean, I'm from the Northeast, I hate driving my car up there in winter.

 

Brutal, it all that salt they use on the roads here in Ontario.

 

Now a days they're starting to use liquid salt down here in the states. It's even worse because that **** gets everywhere and eats at everything. I'm not sure if they use that up there where you guys are but it sucks.

 

At least in Southern Ontario, it's still good old fashion rock salt and sand mix. The stuff that destroy your paint job if your anywhere near the bastards when their applying it.

 

u need to use a torch and burn it until it turns slightly red, hit it lightly with a mallet. then pour water on it, LOTS Of WAter, usually this will crack the rust bond, heat the thing again right away and repeat the water step. then keep pouring water until its completely cool off, then tap it lightly with a mallet again and twist, it will come right off.

 

I have the same problem with mine. It rotates freely in the slot, but can't be pulled off. I think the cheap-*** u-bolt ends up crimping the two together.

 

Followup: From the Factory Service Manual ==> "If the main silencer and middle pipe are reused after being separated once, exhaust leakage will occur. When replacing the main silencer or middle pipe, always replace the main silencer and middle pipe at the same time"

In other words, don't separate them or they're toast.

 

I don't think hes gonna care much if its just for storage..

 

you can fix the leak with a little bit of work.

 

Thanks, everyone still have not got it apart to date, yes it is for storage. If I don't get it off soon I'll just cut it apart and be done with it.