I was wondering if anyone knew if the connectors from the catalytic converter are threaded bolts or just studs welded in to the downpipe on an 03 es. I can't seem to turn a wrench at all even after treating the area with pb blaster daily. Tips/tricks/advice appreciated.

 

For me and my OZ Rally, the bolts were threaded. It took ALOT of torque and some additional heat to eventually remove them. I am not sure if the ES is different than the OZ but I can't imagine they would be.

 

What did you use to break them free?

 

Probably a blow torch & pb blaster. That wasn't a joke btw.

 

Will the bolt still be intact? I didn't receive replacement hardware so I need the old ones to match up

 

Yeah, the purpose isn't to burn it off, just to heat and loosen it. If you melt the bolt then bro, you went full retard. And you never go full retard...

 

That's hilarious, but GB is right, the bolts will still be there, your just using the heat to mostly on the nut because the heat will expand it and you should be able to break it loose, but as stated before, they are a royal pain in the *** to remove so don't be discouraged if you can't get it right away.