Catalytic converter removal

2000 PONTIAC GRAND AM
140,000 MILES • 3.4L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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ALEX19899
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I am trying to remove the nut on the catalytic converter where it connects to the exhaust manifold. I have be using a breaker bar to remove it but it will not move. I even used PB Blaster.
Mar 13, 2018 at 9:15 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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They can be very tight due to rust, give it a good spay and let it sit a while. also, there is a good product call freeze and release, that may be available to you. it is in a spray can. Always use a single hex socket and work back and forward as this will help break the bond, this method should work to remove stubborn nuts.
Mar 14, 2018 at 2:21 AM
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ALEX19899
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will it be alright to use an impact wrench?
Mar 14, 2018 at 2:25 AM
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MHPAUTOS
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Risky, as you do not want to use very high torque, you do not want to snap the stud. try low torque and see if it moves, but still use the back and forth action to help loosen the rust.
Mar 14, 2018 at 2:41 AM
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JOHNNY G.JR
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have you tried heat,ie torch?
Mar 14, 2018 at 3:55 PM
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ALEX19899
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it is in a hard to reach place. I cannot really fit a torch in that area.
Mar 14, 2018 at 4:43 PM
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ALEX19899
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it has a couple wires by it.
Mar 14, 2018 at 6:54 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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I was going to say the same thing that there is not a lot of room and using a torch may damage other items.
Mar 14, 2018 at 6:56 PM
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ALEX19899
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I am going to try some liquid wrench and see how that goes.
Mar 14, 2018 at 8:06 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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Give it a good soak and let it sit for a while, you may be wise to do this a few times and work the nut back and forth.
Mar 14, 2018 at 8:29 PM
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ALEX19899
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on another topic my wheel bearing wire snap.
Mar 15, 2018 at 5:20 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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not sure what you mean by wheel bearing wire?
Mar 15, 2018 at 8:10 PM
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ALEX19899
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The wire for the wheel sensor is cut.
Mar 15, 2018 at 8:27 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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Okay, the speed sensor, best to replace the sensor as re-joining the wire if not done correctly with solder and a good connection may cause issues. If it is the other side of the plug in the main loom, you will have to solder and seal, but you must make sure it is a good connection or as i said you may have problems.
Mar 15, 2018 at 8:35 PM
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ALEX19899
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if not replaced what issues would I come across?
Mar 15, 2018 at 9:32 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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ABS will not work, but I will have to look into the schematic to see if it generates a signal for any other system.
Mar 15, 2018 at 10:05 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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It looks a s if the speed sensors are only used for ABS input.
Mar 19, 2018 at 11:31 PM