i cant reach my header - h pipe bolt because of the damn cats. whats the best tool to get up there and loosen the bolts? should i try to loosen them from the bottom or top? any other helpful hints for switching h pipes?
To remove the H-pipe your going to want some socket wrench extensions (I use the 6" ones and 3" ones). You will want a swivel socket as well to contort to what you need.
Spray some wd40 or Liquid Wrench equivalent on the bolts to soak to help you remove them.
Unplug your 02 sensor connections. I use a skinny flathead screwdriver to depress the connector.
You will need to go in from the bottom and use a looooonnnnnggggg extnesion and a wobble attachment to get the bend that you need to get up there. If it has never been removed before then get some penetrating lube for it and lay hell to it with it. A impact gun will also make life much easier too.
I believe it is 5/8's or 11/16th's which worked for me. The bolts might actually be metric but if you can get the standard socket on there "straight" it won't strip...
For a first timer and having a friend just expect 2 hours for the install although many can get it on and off quicker than that...just take your time and have patience (calmness) and it should go on and come off smooth as butter
Jack the car up safely (a lift would be even better). Get the bolts semi-snug and when you get the exhaust to fit like you want it and check for clearance issues tighten them all down to a final torque. Recheck the bolts in a week or so to see if they have loosened...
Let's see: It has two different extensions and a swivel attachment...yep it will do
Just have patience and if you need more leverage to break the manifold to H-pipe bolts you can put a hollow bar over your socket wrench for more leverage. It works nicely...