OBX lth downpipe bolts

Donkeypuncher · Post by **Donkeypuncher** » Thu Dec 09, 2010 9:18 pm

One of the bolts came completely loose on the downpipe and I can't seem to get a wrench or socket on there to tighten the bolt or nut. Is there a certain technique or tool I should be using to get in there? I've got lots of hand tools and wobble sockets, but I just couldn't figure out a way to do it.

I was considering dropping the the exhaust down to get a little more room. Last resort is to unbolt the header and drop it all down in one piece, but I'd rather not have to do that.

EDIT: It's the very top bolt by the way, sits up in the exhaust tunnel and is a pain in the ass to get to.

Johny · Post by **Johny** » Fri Dec 10, 2010 4:08 pm

I watched my mechanic do it and I believe he heated it up and then used a really long extension to grab it and turn it off - it was preeeeeeetty long. Thats about all I know, someone should chime in soon.

Donkeypuncher · Post by **Donkeypuncher** » Fri Dec 10, 2010 7:04 pm

Getting it off wasn't the problem, it was loose enough to do it with my fingers. I got a new bolt and nut, then put it on finger tight. The trouble is the lack of room to turn the ratchet and tighten the bolt. On one side you the pipe is curved so a socket wont fit on the nut, on the other ther is so little room to turn a ratched.

I think I'm gonna link 2 long ass extensions together with a wobble socket and try to get at it from the engine bay.

gilly02le · Post by **gilly02le** » Mon May 16, 2011 10:31 pm

i had to unbolt mine from the head, and lower it down so i could get to the top of the collector for that last bolt. Install a second nut to jam the first in place, that way you won't have to get back in there anytime soon for this issue.