Hello there, does anyone know how tight the spring bolts (2) on the flange after the cat should be? i.e. should they be tighten all the way so the springs are totally compressed or not?

I replaced the stock exhaust with a Borla one but the instructions do not specify that. I did not pay attention to how they "looked" before removing the stock exhaust.

Any info is appreciated. BTY, I did perform an extensive search and could not find any info. Although, I am not saying it is not there, I just couldn't find it. Thx.

 

you dont want to compress them all the way, u mite want to leave some slack so it can take some bumps. for my turbo xs exhasut i just tightened it half way so theres still some play in the springs.

 

If they want it all the way, they dont need to put springs there.

Its there for a reason you know, use some common sense.

Leave it about 1/2 way.

 

I'll drink to that

 

haha.

 

Any value to putting anti seize on the threads?? I am on my 3rd exhaust and it was a bitch taking the pipe off after being on 70,000 miles

 

I think its worth a try.

I have talked with several people and they say its common for one of them to freeze up.

 

I know it's already been posted but...

 

This bolt? Of course this bolt.



This pic shows how tight Mazda had mine. Never did get that nut off, had to order new ones.



One thing you must consider is that the nut is NOT a lock nut. In theory the spring is suppose to maintain tension.
But the tension is only as great as the compression of the spring.
So you make the call.


What could it hurt. Graphite should be there for a while, even under that kind of heat.

 

Thanks a lot for those of you who came with helpful comments.

For the super "common sense" guys. I rather go with facts on my RX-8 since I am not as wise mechanic as you guys are.

BTW, the bolt pictures are great!