help with seized/rusted bolts

[saweddoffjeep]

so i just got a new muffler but im having a hell of a time getting the bolts that hold the old muffler on, they are really rusted and held on tight, ive tried nearly everything to get them off, does anyone know of a simple way to get them off

[jeepboy381]

Use a propane torch and heat up the nut evenly. It should come off pretty easy after that.

[5-90]

Either that, or cut the clamp and get a new one.

When you get new hardware, get brass if you can. Then, you won't have that problem...

5-90

[saweddoffjeep]

alright ill give those a shot

[5-90]

I've been using brass on exhaust hardware undercar for the last 20 years or so. Yes, brass is not as strong as steel, but in this application, that's not a factor. However, the copper base tends to be more "self-lubricating" than the iron in the steel, brass doesn't rust (it corrodes, but not readily,) and it will not seize to steel. I generally use brass or bronze from the exhaust manifold on back.

5-90

[saweddoffjeep]

ok ill be sure to go pick some brass clamps up right now
and the torch to get the old ones off

[crunked]

dremel with a cutoff. brass is good.

~sm

[5-90]

ok ill be sure to go pick some brass clamps up right now
and the torch to get the old ones off

You won't be able to find brass exhaust clamps (I haven't, anyhow,) but the U-bolts on the clamps tend to take a standard nut - either 1/4" or 5/16".

You should be able to source brass machine nuts at the hardware store, or you can try to find brass or bronze at a marina/boating supply house.

Even on stainless/CRES clamps, I tend to use brass nuts. Cheap insurance and peace of mind.

5-90