Changing 4" Downpipe

[Grey Ghost]

I need to change the downpipe on my son's '03 that has an A5K on it. A small leak at the flange ended up eating the flare off and will no longer hold on to the turbo.

I was told that I could drop the transmission crossmember and would have enough room to wiggle it out. Tried it tonight, and it didn't work. I still need about another inch. The only way I can see getting enough room would be to remove the passenger side up pipe.

My question is, am I opening a can of worms by pulling the up pipe?

My concern is either twisting off a bolt or having the threads desintegrate when I take the bolts out.

Anyone have much experience pulling up pipes and can offer some tips or advice?


TIA,

Gary

[hondarider552]

Rick lance would know more about this because he makes custom up pipes, but IMO you wouldnt need to move the up pipe. Have you takin off the front pipe?

[Grey Ghost]

Thanks for the reply.

This IS the front/down pipe. It connects to the turbo, 90s down and runs between the engin and the firewall, then 90s to the rear where it connects to the rest of the exhaust system.

I've twisted and turned this big mongoloid looking bastard everywhich way I can and still can't get the sumbitch out.

Click on the link below. It is the backward "S" looking pipe on the left.

http://www.atsdiesel.com/ats_new/productdetail.asp?p=4248202950


Gary

[hondarider552]

Ohh i didnt realize that it was one piece.. damn im out of options.. :(

[Nick]

I run an ATS downpipe and have had to pull it before. My experience is that it's easiest to cut the downpipe off at the bottom of the firewall. Then pull it out the bottom - fix, reinstall and weld it back up. Those up-pipe bolts are a friggen' nightmare.

Your experience may differ,

Nick

[minisub]

Loosen the body mounting bolts and jack the body off the frame an inch or so?

[RickDLance]

If you do pull the up pipe, use anti seize on the bolts when you reinstall them.;)

[Grey Ghost]

Thanks to all for the replies.



Rick,
Yeah, i definately would use never seize. My biggest concern is getting the bolts OUT without screwing up any threads or bolts.




Thanks again,
Gary

[James Hess]

might not help much but soak them in a penetrant for a bit before you try to loosen them if you pull the up pipe, its worth a shot to try anyway if you go that rout.