Removal of Exhaust Bolts

[AV325i]

I'm trying to remove the exhaust pipe/muffler unit for my 1988 325i convertible

Can you give advice on removal of the bolts between the coverter and the exhaust/muffler pipe?

The "nut?" on the top (in the picture - actually toward the back of the car) seems round. is it just rusted? If so, then what is the best way to get this off? Especially the ones in the back, where the access is limited.

Thanks!

[immajackuup]

vice grip

[AV325i]

So is that a nut on that side? Seems odd to me that is would get that rounded. Is that common? I won't be able to get a vice grip on the bolts in back.

[Ether-D]

sawz-all + new bolts and nuts = done.

[Ether-D]

it is a nut, but it is round on the outermost edge. a 12mm 6 point might work.

[e30slidewayz]

cut um off... get new hardware

[AV325i]

I thought about cutting the bolts. Seems easy for the bottom ones, but is there a flange or something I would damage on the converter side if I try to cut straight through? I suppose I will try the vice grips option first. Does heating with a propane torch help? Any other tricks?

[paperplane94]

Have you soaked them in the PBlaster for several days?

[nando]

Impact..

[stamar]

ya its not rounded unless you are sure.

Just some liquid wrench, a socket with a universal joint and a long extension.. looks very healthy for an exhaust nut.

No guarantees buy some new ones though dont put that back on.

rounded on top hex at the base. For hammering an impact socket on if you want.

People like those wobble extensions for exhaust its all the rage.

[Ceeker]

drop the exhaust so you can work more easily. a bit more work but you'll be thankful later. Cut bolts remove and add new hardware. I did the exhaust same thing. or, if you can reach the upper bolts - cut and be done with.

[AV325i]

Dropping the exhaust is a great idea. I remember now that I did that with another car and it made removal a snap, but I had forgotten that! Thanks for reminding me! Then I will either cut them or pound on a socket. I appreciate the comments!

[jlevie]

I'd try to get the nuts off first. Soak them with PBlaster or Kroil for a day or so and then use a six point wrench or socket. If that won't grab the nuts, I'd try the socket like things meant for removal of rounded fasteners (from Sears and other places). My last resort would be to disconnect the down tubes at the headers, drop the assembly down, and cut the bolts.

[dnguyen1963]

Here is a little trick for removing exhaust bolts. Use a propane torch to heat only on one side of the nut to hot then apply the end of a candle to the other side of the nut. Let the wax seep in then use an impact wrench to take off the bolt.

[devon.818]

they make reverse threaded sockets for a reason.

hammer reverse socket on and the remove like normal.

or

get a gator grip socket, the kind with a bunch of pins inside that form to whatever shape the object is.