Can't get exhaust bolts tight

[johnnybronco]

I've got a '89 B2- I just pulled the tranny and replaced the clutch and now I can't get the bolts that hold the exhaust pipes that come off the manifolds (V6) tight enough to seal. They just won't turn very far and I'm afraid of breaking my tools. Any ideas? New bolts? I've already PB Blasted the bolts and holes for the last few days.

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

You should really run a tap through the holes and I always use new bolts (I'm partial to using Stainless, but you could use a hardened bolt).

I've managed to get away without tapping the holes most of the time just by using new bolts, a 24" long 1/2" extension with a swivel and a Craftsman 1/2" ratchet with a short cheater pipe.

You could also buy an exhaust stud set from a place like Autozone. They screw into the exhaust manifolds and you put a nut on the down pipe side.

I've heard of people using a smaller diameter bolt and a nut, but for the way those bolts rust sometimes I'd use it as a last-ditch method.

 

[adsm08]

Run a chaser or a tap in there to clean the threads, get some new stainless bolts, goop some anit-seize on it, and you are golden.