Exhaust removal - confused, How do I get this sucker off? Options

[ThePaintedMan]

Hello all,
I've been meaning to look for an exhaust leak at the head for some time. I ordered new copper rings, but before I can install them, I need your advice on how to get the exhaust off. As you can see in pictures, the headers have been so boogered up, that it is impossible to fit a socket on some of the barrel nuts. Its like the whole thing has been bent sideways, which means the header is butted up against the barrel nut. One of them in particular is really an issue because for whatever reason I cannot reach the top of the stud. The barrel nut is so far down along the thread that there is nothing sticking out far enough to get a socket on. To make matters worse, while tinkering with it, I backed one of the barrel nuts off only to find the stud pulled completely out. Is it possible to insert a helicoil with the engine in the car once I get the exhaust off? Thanks for the help!

[rhodyguy]

i'm unlcear as to what is currently installed. headers, hes w/tin, hes without the tin? either way something is wrong with the piping. it must have taken took a pretty good wack to move them around. if you don't care about heat, jim kelly is selling some 2.0 he piping in the classifieds. check out the set with the nice muffler flanges. cut the offending piping on your car so you can get to the nuts and be done with it.

for tight to pipe nuts, but not as tight as yours, a 1/4" drive socket and longer extension will often give you just enough room to slip the socket on with some gentle assistance.

in post #6 he states the muffler has been welded to the flange/piping. i'd scrap the system. in florida i should think there's little need for heat.

k