I4 Exhaust removal tips

[docron]

Here are a couple tips for OEM exhaust removal for the i4 when installing new exhaust.

1. Remove the bolt in the foil that next to flex pipe. This will actually provide more clearance for OEM exhaust. Reinstall the bolt once you install the aftermarket exhaust.

2. If you dont remove that bolt, there is a possibility you will puncture the OEM flexpipe as clearance space is super tight when trying to disconnect the midpipe from bend pipe of exhaust.

3. To assist in disconnecting the midpipe from the flexpipe bend pipe, use a piece of 2x4 wood and hammer. Place the end of the 2x4 at the bend (where the finger is pointing) and gently start tapping with hammer. There is a rear crossbar preventing you from swiveling and rotating the flex bend pipe up and down to disconnect the midpipe fitting. You can see the silver insulated wrapped bar in the picture.

Hope this helps!

 

[F1 SML8R]

This definately helps. You should see my install pics that I posted in one of the exhaust threads. I basically took a reciprocating saw to the OE flex pipe to get the OE exhaust out, because I couldn't separate the mid-pipe. On mine, it looked like the tack weld went passed the clamp and to the mid-pipe making unremoveable.

Also, related to the mid-pipe, how hard was it for you to get to that v clamp that attaches to the down-pipe? Ours was a PIA! We got it, after using a bunch of different extensions. Afterwards, I realized we could have hit it from above or through the service panel in the trunk as well.

 

[docron]

This definately helps. You should see my install pics that I posted in one of the exhaust threads. I basically took a reciprocating saw to the OE flex pipe to get the OE exhaust out, because I couldn't separate the mid-pipe. On mine, it looked like the tack weld went passed the clamp and to the mid-pipe making unremoveable.

Also, related to the mid-pipe, how hard was it for you to get to that v clamp that attaches to the down-pipe? Ours was a PIA! We got it, after using a bunch of different extensions. Afterwards, I realized we could have hit it from above or through the service panel in the trunk as well.

I havent attacked the DP yet. Have to get motivated one weekend. But i do plan on using that access panel in the trunk.