Can't remove stock muffler
 

I bought a new axleback and I've been trying to get these two 14mm nuts off the stock muffler, but just seems impossible to budge.

I tried heating up the nuts and bolts with a torch, soaking it in WD-40, etc, still not a single budge :bonk:. Any tips from you guys that had similar experiences like this?

And would you guys also recommend me to replace these nuts/bolts?

Thanks!

Welcome to the forum, bopi ......... :clap:

First check and make sure some yo-yo didn't weld the nuts on.

Second, spray them with PB Blaster and let them soak for a couple of beers.

Make sure your socket is the right size.

Now, try to turn them counterclock wise.

If they won't budge, rap them with a hammer (don't bugger up the threads).

If still no go, hit the nuts with a torch (not the bolt, just the nuts)

Still won't budge? Cut them off with a hack saw or a cutting torch ...... that will teach em ...... :paddle:

Now, get some new galvanized bolts, lock washers and nuts of the proper size from the hardware store.

OR ....... do it the "humfrz" way.

Toss the new muffler in the back, drive up to your local automotive/muffler shop, have a cup of coffee and they will have them swapped out before you get half way the first article in the car magazine.

Pay them about $30, drive around and enjoy the new sounds and then go home and take a nap.

No busted knuckles, dirty hands, hurting knees or sore back ....... :D


humfrz

Meh. Exhaust fasteners are practically disposable. I don't remember offhand if their positions on the axleback flange lend themselves to breaking with a nut splitter or grinding with a cutoff wheel. Last resort is nice and slow with a hacksaw blade.

Just replace with the same length hardened nut & bolt. I think they're 8 mm but don't take my word for it.

Thanks for the warm welcome, always been a lurker here :D

Anyway, I'll try everything you suggested. If all else fails, I'll try out your method.
I actually live in the Tacoma area; what shop do you go to that will replace your muffler for $30? :cheers:

Haha... :popcorn:

For the past 20 years I've taken all my vehicles for all kinds of service to these fellows at SeaTac Goodyear in Puyallup.

https://seatactireandautotech.com/

They are knowledgeable and honest. Ask for Jerry or Bob.

Actually any muffler shop should do it for about $30. Just tell them it's just an axle back muffler, with two bolts & nuts hanging on four rubber hangers.


humfrz

What's so funny .......old man ...... :confused0068:

You will get old some day too ........ :D


humfrz

Oh, I'm well on my way. :(


Wait. What about Bubba? :D

Well, Bubba would just chop the nuts off with a large cold chisel and a BFH and cut off the rubber hangars with his pocket knife ......... then just use baling wire to install the new one.

Since I wouldn't be there to stop him, it's best to ask Jerry or Bob to do the work ....... :D


humfrz

I remember a long time ago when I was in first grade or so I came to grips with my mortality. I realized for the first time that I will one day die. Took me a few days to get over it but boy was I scared for a while. Thanks - or not - for reminding me

I was about to say what kind of baby hands you guys have, then I remembered you "people" deal with snow and rust. Lol. Do what humfrz said.

I'm just going to go ahead and save this quote to use for just about everything. :lol:

Had the same problem. I drove to the dealership to buy some new bolts because I was positive I'd have to just cut mine. They offered to try with their impact gun (apartment life, no access to power tools) and they actually came off. Was quoted $70 at every shop I asked just for the privilege of being on their lift but Subaru did it pro bono.

I have probably changed 100+ exhausts over the years. I think maybe 2 of those were done by actually unscrewing the nuts.