help w/exhaust removal

[mp5]

I just got the Mazdaspeed axle back exhaust and I'm trying to install it. The problem is I can't get the stock rear section off. I first soaked the nuts in penetrating lube for 2 days before attempting to remove them. I still ended up stripping them. Then I got the dremel out and just cut them off. There is maybe 1/32 inch of the nut left and I still can't get the rear section off. I would like to keep the stock rear sectin usuable in case I don't like the Mazdaspeed. Anyone have any ideas on what to try next? I'd hate to have to bring it to an exhaust shop to have it installed.

 

[Micah]

I had to cut mine off also. You might want to try heating them with an torch. I just used my buddies garage, quick hit with the airgun attachment that cuts steel, just cut off the bolt end and then put up my new exhaust.

Fortunately for me, Dana(Kooldino) had left the bolts on his when he sold it to me.

 

[Sir Nuke]

well if you cut BOTH nuts/studs off so that there is only a 32nd left on both sides....you aren't going to have much luck putting any kind of wrench back on them....

I would do one of two things next....either get a nice hefty punch and a hammer and start smacking the stud in the center to attempt to knock them threw....OR get a grinder and grind the remainder of the nut head off, at which time they will fall off.

just another hint.....once you get the bolts/nuts/studs off...and that connection is loose...you will find it a BI*CH to get the mufflers hangers out of the rubber hangers.....stich a small screw driver between the steel rod and the rubber and shoot some WD-40 between them and they will come right apart. other wise they STICK together.

 

[mp5]

Thanks for the help. A couple of taps with a punch and the bolts popped right out. Even with the wd-40 it was a bi!ch to remove the exhaust from the hangers, I can't imagine trying it without it. So far I like the exhaust, nice deep tone without any raspiness of the Honda's around here. Plus it looks really good on the car.