Hey you guys and gals,

I don’t know about you, but I am getting tired of having to remove the upper radiator pipe and fan in order to gain access to the trouble some HRC 3rd downpipe bolt.

Seeing how I am running XtremeRS’ 2.5” downpipe, which translate to even less room for Hex nut clearance and stud, the idea of replacing the stud with bolt is out of the question. Until yesterday….I had a vision :OP

I was thinking why not just notch the flange, so that I can just slide the DP flange on there with the bolt/washers already in place. Then tighten.

What do you guys think? Will this compromise the sealing surface by decreasing even distribution of clamping force between flange and turbo? of course lock washers will be used.

Any feed back greatly appreciated. Thanks for all of your help.

-K-

Originally posted by eclipsekaiser
Hey you guys and gals, I don’t know about you, but I am getting tired of having to remove the upper radiator pipe and fan in order to gain access to the trouble some HRC 3rd downpipe bolt. Seeing how I am running XtremeRS’ 2.5” downpipe, which translate to even less room for Hex nut clearance and stud, the idea of replacing the stud with bolt is out of the question. Until yesterday….I had a vision :OP I was thinking why not just notch the flange, so that I can just slide the DP flange on there with the bolt/washers already in place. Then tighten. What do you guys think? Will this compromise the sealing surface by decreasing even distribution of clamping force between flange and turbo? of course lock washers will be used. Any feed back greatly appreciated. Thanks for all of your help. -K-

why not just upgrade to the new downpipe. takes 30 seconds to remove now and you dont have to move the upper radiator hose.