Replacing the starboard donut and found there are two different ones available. Same size, different materials. I went with the metal one but won't put it in till Friday night. Any input?

Yes, I have one idea..

At least a day prior to attempting to undo any of those rusted bolts, start soaking them with some type of liquid wrench.


Start the engine and let it run a couple minutes, just to get the exhaust warmed up (not too hot, or you will light off the liquid wrench)

Soak the nuts, and the warmth and expanded metal will assist in it creaping in.

When you go to take them off, use a pneumatic wrench, if you have one. The repeated light hammering is easier on the studs than a strong hand or breaker bar.

Hopefully, you will get through it without snapping off a stud.

Use new nuts and lock washers with anti=sieze for reassambly.

Good luck.

The other material is more 'forgiving" and permits compression to achieve a seal.

I am not sure that they are any less strong.



[This message has been edited by Windsor Dalrymple (edited July 30, 2004).]