Tearing in to my mothers 2000 Bravada. Had an exhaust leak at the muffler flange and it looked like a stud busted off. Started to take the nut off the other stud and it crumbled with little force. so here is what I am stuck with...



Tried heating them up with a torch, using wax to penetrate but nothing seems to budge them. Thinking I might take it by the local garage and see if they can pop them out for me for $20 unless someone has any other ideas?

 

Propane wont work, try yellow can MAPP gas. heat flange not bolt red hot, then tap with hammer. Or cut it close to flange then drill it out

 

I used a Benzomatic propane torch(blue bottle). Is there really a difference?

 

Mapp is hotter

 

Thanks!

 

Grind-em flat and drill them out. Replace with bolts.

 

Yah thinking about trying that tonight. Will pick up some Cobalt drill bits.

 

Shouldn't need cobalt bits on this material - just be sure to use a nice new bit with plenty of real cutting oil (the really stinky stuff) - keep the bit speed slow and the bit well lubed - better if you are drilling downwards into a puddle of oil. Grind off flat with a file or dremel or grinder or whatever and deeply centerpunch before you start. You will be amazed!! Don't try to step up from making a little hole in the center - do your hole to full size the first time.

p.s. if you have trouble finding purpose made cutting oil, try the plumbing section of a big box store. I got mine at Lowes as a quart squirt bottle. Is used when cutting threads on ends of steel pipes. Keep it off of your clothes or your Mom will strangle you!

 

It works a lot better if you start small, maybe around a 1/8" drill bit and work your way up. I replaced mine and used some stainless steel bolts. They cost a little more but they are easy to take off years down the road. I got the bolts and drill bits from tractor supply and spent less than $20.