I'm switching out my exhaust with a cat back and I can't get the flange bolts out. I've PB Blasted it, Propane torched it, hit it with a hammer, tried numerous sockets and it won't budge. If I put an type of pressure on it the nut just strips. Any help would be appreciated.

 

Just cut 'em off......

Not like they are special or anything....

 

Those look pretty corroded. Cutting looks like the only way.

 

How would you make the cut? What are some options for tools to cut them?

I am probably facing this in the future and I don't have an air compressor for any fancy cutting tools, so I figured I'd ask for some specific cutting tool options.

 

You could use a Dremel Rotary tool with a cut off wheel or get yourself a nut splitter.

http://www.tedpella.com/tools_html/dremel.htm

http://www.northerntool.com/webapp/w...70_34573_34573

 

A dremel will work...if you buy one I recommend you get a variable speed as it will be more versital in the long run. But with a Dremel this will be about to heaviest you should try to cut. I'd use mine on this...

You can get an electric 4 1/2 inch angle grinder for the same or less....put on a metal cut off wheel and you'll knock this bolt off easy. Later it is a useful cutting tool / grinder for lots of metal work. Lowes, Harbor Freight, HD ... I'd reach for mine FIRST for this job, if I have the access.

Regarding your compressor comment..... cutting tools typically eat a pretty good bit of air. Don't walk into a compressor purchase without research. Air tools are all about cubic feet per minute - CFM - and an air grinder, sander or a paint gun eat a lot of CFM fast.... A 35 gallon compressor will handle an impact wrench, rachet, air brush, detail gun just fine. A cut off wheel, die grinder or a full size spray gun....less so. Pick your tools....determine the CFM you need then buy a compressor a little bit bigger if you can.

 

The Dremel cutting wheels break easily. If you use one of those, WEAR your SAFETY GLASSES!

 

I ended up going to a garage and having them drill the bolts out. $15 well spent and I'm a happier man. I spent hours on my back with a dremel and that didn't even get the job done. The top bolt/nut if hard to access and you can't get an angle to fully cut the nut off the bolt.