problem bolts in the exhaust

[backyardcustom]

Ok, so my catalytic converter is shot. The huge open cracks gave it away as well as the terrible sound of an exhaust leak. The biggest problem is the bolts that hold the cat to the manifold. I rounded them both off today and split a knuckle wide open. If I cut the bolts out with a grinder will i be able to tap the cast manifold or could I just run stainless bolts through the flanges and put a nut on the other side. Either way, I need a new cat. and it has to go on soon to pass inspection. I just don't want to crack the manifold and then be replacing it.

[Wicked_Sludge]

id go with the drill+bolt and nut method.

[Sevensecondsuv]

This is a 2.3 I assume? If so, the manifold comes off really easily (at least the 2 I've done). It would be much easier to work on it when it's sitting on the work bench. The bolts holding it to the engine come out pretty easily, then it's just the EGR and 02 hookups, but those come off pretty easily too. You'll need a new exhaust manifold gasket, but that's only like 7 bucks.