1980 sc SSI's

[ikeike2]

Can SSi's be installed with the engine in the car? I'm having trouble with the hex nuts
that meet up with the exhaust header. I'm sure I did it before but that was 20 yrs age.

Thanks

Bud Schramm

[kodioneill]

Try to be more descriptive and include photos. They can be installed with the engine in the car.

[john walker's workshop]

to save you the hassle of dealing with broken exhaust studs, which will probably happen if you just start trying to twist them off, get yourself a rental oxy/acetylene rig and heat each nut red before removing. if they still resist, reheat and try again. 90% won't budge, but loosen with heat, 5% come loose after soaking with kroil, 5% you get lucky. just don't keep reefing on them until a stud breaks.

[ikeike2]

I didn't have any problems getting the headers off. My problem is getting 3 nuts on the SSI's.

[will hung]

I used some really shallow sockets, universals, and extensions to get them all tightened. I've read that the sockets that have a universal built into them are even better for clearance.

[don gilbert]

I made up a little wrech that I put an S bend in.

[island911]

You may also have a clearance issue with the SSi's (left) hitting the clutch spring. (iirc)

[al lkosmal]

They can be installed with the engine in the car, but it is a PITA, for sure. I have used a combination of the tool provided by SSI (borrow one of these from a local if you can), uni-joints and open end wrenches. +1 regarding the interference with the clutch spring. I had to modify the flange to clear (beat it with a hammer) It can be done.........

regards,
Al

[ikeike2]

Thanks for everyone's help