cannot remove a flange bolt due to grooved edge.. see attached pic

[whitebroncoii87]

I was trying to remove a bolt on the flange between exhaust manifold and y-pipe but got stumped.. Any idea how to get this bolt off (please see attached photo), standard socket or wrench don't fit because the flange is grooved around the edges and the bolt head is too big leaving no room in between.. Any suggestions ideas please!!

 

[msparks]

I bet it takes some kind of special thin wall socket. Don’t really know, maybe check with advance auto or autozone. They might have a socket that they will rent to you.

 

[PlumCrazy]

Try using a name brand 6pt socket. They are thinner walled than any 12pt. Or take an old socket to the grinder and make it thin walled.

 

[Andy D]

How about using a punch and a hammer to spread the flange? Next would be to pound a hex socket onto it. Give it a few shots to the face of the head after a drop of oil from the dip stick is applied. I had a similar trouble with the header flanges on the Rat. I supposed it was because the studs had sheared and were drilled out poorly. I hogged them out at least to 7/16 and used 3/8 grade 8 bolts and long brass nuts. I believe in hacking to make future work easier.

 

[csargents1546]

Might have to cut off. Don't come from manufacture with those type of bolts. A torch or a cut off wheel might be in order.

 

[enjr44]

Well, someone got it in there, so someone else should be able to get it out. Me, I would grind down a six point socket until it fit. Another option is to take it to a muffler shop and have them take it out. Those guys seem to be able to get anything apart.

 

[adsm08]

I'd get a mid-grade socket, like a Craftsman 6 pt and grind the edge down a bit. I'll bet that's how it was put in.

 

[BCanuck]

I would weld a nut onto it and crank that sucker out.