Help! I'm having some trouble installing my new exhaust

[BoxsterDan]

Hey everyone,

I haven't posted here before, but I've been a long time reader.

I'm in the process of installing a GHL exhaust to my 2000 2.7 Boxster. However, I have run into some difficulties. 2 of the bolts that hold the "U" pipe to the cats broke, one on each side and I am having no luck whatsoever removing the nuts (one on each side) from the "U" pipe joint that connects to the OE exhaust itself.

I went to the auto store down the street and got some new bolts, they're not metric, but I'll use them, with new nuts (4 bolts total).

BUT I still can't get those darn nuts off the joiner at the exhaust.

I need the car tomorrow and I have the whole back taken down (bumper etc).

What should I do???

I've tried hitting it with PB blaster and tapping it with a hammer, but the stubborn things one move.

Any tips? Should I run the car to give them some heat? Is there risk with some of the exhaust taken down already? CEL, damage, Fire?!?

I really appreciate anyones help at this point... kinda desperate.

Thanks,

BoxsterDan

[orcadigital]

I'd recommend heat through use of a blow torch. I am unsure about running the engine to generate the heat, but I would think that would be a last resort. Otherwise you are trying to get in there with a nut-buster, dremel, or drill.

[BoxsterDan]

Do you think Porsche still sells the joiners for the "U" pipe? Ideally, I'd like to replace all the hardware that's rusted: The 4 bolts between the car and "U", the 2 between the "U" and exhaust, and the 4 that hold the hanger loops (they seem to be affixed to a ~1"x2" plate, 2 bolts to each plate).

Where could I find those parts? I hate to use generic Home Depot hardware, and I also don't know where I'd get the joiner sleeves (or whatever they're called).


Thanks!