Clamp or Weld?

**BlackSS1** · 03-31-2008, 05:14 AM

With aftermarket headers/catbacks, how do you seal up your systems?

**BlkCamSS00** · 03-31-2008, 09:58 AM

i went weld buttt i make the mistake of putting on the headers first and then trying to weld soo needless to sayy i left the clamps and welded ass much ass i could but it still leaks a lil.. if ur going to weld make sure u weld be4 u put onnn

**0rion** · 03-31-2008, 10:29 AM

if you plan on other mods that might require you to remove the exhaust I would definitely clamp it and use band clamps. U-bolt clamps crush the pipe a little bit and makit it a real bear to get back off without cutting. I've had my exhaust off every year for about the last 5 years. There is no way I would want anything other than band clamps on it.

**splitfinger09** · 03-31-2008, 04:25 PM

Originally Posted by 0rion

if you plan on other mods that might require you to remove the exhaust I would definitely clamp it and use band clamps. U-bolt clamps crush the pipe a little bit and makit it a real bear to get back off without cutting. I've had my exhaust off every year for about the last 5 years. There is no way I would want anything other than band clamps on it.

+1...use the U bolt clamps. Otherwise getting the pipes to come apart is a real PITA.

**Firebirdjones** · 03-31-2008, 04:42 PM

Orion has a point. It's necessary at times to remove these systems whether it be removing the front half for a clutch job or removing the rear half to drop the tank for a fuel pump install.

I use nothing but the band clamps on all my cars regardless. Keeps from crushing the pipes, that and a little antiseeze and they slide apart real nice later on.

**INMY01TA** · 03-31-2008, 06:09 PM

Clamp the headers to the Y, and the Y to the catback. Never know when the Y has to come off. For the catback I clamp everything but put a small tack weld at every joint so theres no slipping or lopsided tips. This way you can still seperate relatively easy if needed.