[neejay]

I was about to install my downpipe, when I noticed the bracket on the downpipe-to-midpipe has one damn tack weld. Is this normal? I've never heard it mentioned in any guides or videos, so I'm assuming not.

In addition to that, I noticed the replacement bracket I ordered is a different part number and also has a different design. I was scared to force the clamp apart, for fear of bending it and it not sitting back flush when tightening it. How much clearance should I need to free the downpipe?

Is my only option to get an exhaust shop to undo the tack weld? I'd rather not damage the midpipe from removing the tack weld and need a replacement either.

[burro_blasta]

My memory is a little rusty - pun intended - but is the bracket around the mid pipe, and the down pipe fits inside the mid pipe? I just used that same bracket and assume it was tack welded onto the mid pipe but it didn't matter

[neejay]

Originally Posted by burro_blasta

My memory is a little rusty - pun intended - but is the bracket around the mid pipe, and the down pipe fits inside the mid pipe? I just used that same bracket and assume it was tack welded onto the mid pipe but it didn't matter

Yep, it's around the midpipe. I bought new hardware, unaware that this bracket was tack welded lol. So I only need to undo it, pry it apart, slide out the downpipe, and slide the new one in, ok. I've just never seen the tack weld mentioned before in any guides, so I wanted to make sure, as this is my daily driver.

[burro_blasta]

That's all I remember doing. By buying the hardware you thought further ahead than I had!

[neejay]

Originally Posted by burro_blasta

That's all I remember doing. By buying the hardware you thought further ahead than I had!

I got the stock out and the aftermarket in the midpipe, but it's irrelevant now, as I can't get it lined up with the turbo outlet enough for the clamp to bite and tighten down (this one has no hanger to help align). I might end up having to get it towed to a performance shop around here tomorrow...

Thanks for your replies/insight though!

[trialmountain]

No need to replace that clamp. Just did mine today and had the same tack weld in the same place on the clamp. Pulled out the old Downpipe and slid in the new one. Used WD40 to help it slide in easier.

[neejay]

Originally Posted by trialmountain

No need to replace that clamp. Just did mine today and had the same tack weld in the same place on the clamp. Pulled out the old Downpipe and slid in the new one. Used WD40 to help it slide in easier.

Cool, thanks, it's in now, thanks to a local shop.