Do I need new studs for my MAC H-pipe?

[elite130]

I am installing my new O/R MAC H-pipe tonight and I am getting all the material I need so I don't have to run out for parts in the middle of the install.

1)I heard that I should buy new header studs that go from the header flange to the h-pipe flange. Do I buy stock replacements or something different? Why won't the stock bolts work with the MAC h-pipe?

2) I know I need a new gasket for the passenger side flange, but I don't need one for the driver's side because it is a ball/socket connector? Am I correct on this?

3) Do I need a special tool to remove the O2 sensors?

I have soaked the nuts w/ PB Blaster last night and I have lots of extensions and assortment of sockets.

If you have any more helpful hints, I would appreciate it.

Thanks!

 

[timeless2]

1. The stock ones will work. They did on my 2004. Some people break them removing the stock exhaust. You can pick up a set from your local Parts store and return them if you don't use them. Cheap insurance.

2. Driver's side does not need one.

3. I used a crescent wrench on the o2 sensors, once the stock pipe was off.

Have patience and a friend to help, if you can.
One further hint--before you start, disconnect the battery. You could potentially arc the starter on the passenger side and you will need to reset the PCM to acclimate to the new exhaust anyway.

 

[elite130]

Excellent! That's what I needed to know. Thank you!

 

[timeless2]

You are most welcome.

 

[tomustang]

I am a post whore.


remember to disconnect the battery

 

[propellerhead]

I got the NAPA replacement stud kit. The reason you might need this is the factory studs have a shoulder on them. Depending on how the Mac flange mates up to your header flange, the shoulders may prevent you from cranking the nuts far down enough to make a seal. The NAPA kit does not have the shoulder. However, Mac has been including the sleeve in their midpipe kits. It's a metal sleeve that acts like a spacer so you don't need the studs.

Check my cardomain thing for details.

 

[elite130]

That answered all of my questions...THANKS! I went to NAPA asking for that stud kit and they said they didn't have one. So that info really helped me out. Hopefully I won't need it though.

 

[timeless2]

Right-as propellerhead stated, they were once required, but fitment has gotten better on the MAC pieces lately. Hence, my recommendation on getting them as a back-up in case you over-torqued and broke something.

 

[propellerhead]

That answered all of my questions...THANKS! I went to NAPA asking for that stud kit and they said they didn't have one. So that info really helped me out. Hopefully I won't need it though.

Did you ask for part number 600-1819 Exhaust Manifold Stud Kit?

 

[willit]

How do you remove the studs? I have the SLP X pipe on my ride, and have a fit issue with the driver side fitting due to shoulders on the studs. Is there a tool to unscrew them? The ends of the studs have a rectangular look to them.

 

[DocG]

If you're just removing old ones and don't need to re-use them, a vise grip will get them out.

 

[sgarlic]

A really small socket fits on there.. don't recall what size, or vice grips, or grind a slit with a dremel if there's room, and use a flathead screwdriver to spin it back out.