Installation Help: Cat - BMW Forum

Neil Paz · 08-17-2006, 11:38 AM

1984 325e (E30)

I am trying to take off my old catalytic converter in order to put the new one on, but I can't seem to get at the six bolts that attach the two tubes from the exhaust manifold.
It's a tight fit. Do I need a special tool (something long), or do I have to take some other part off?
I have tried getting at the bolts from under the car and from under the hood. What is the best way to unscrew these bolts?

JoeMadoo · 08-17-2006, 11:47 AM

It takes patients and wd-40. You will use anything from a 14mm wrench to a socket to a 2 foot wobble extenstion.

Neil Paz · 08-17-2006, 12:28 PM

A wobble extension...that's exactly it. I didn't know the name.

And I hear PB Blaster works better than WD-40.

german-speed-demon · 08-17-2006, 01:02 PM

It does. But it is more expensive too.

DIRTE30 · 08-17-2006, 01:53 PM

A good six point deep well socket and about 2.5' of 1/2 extension and u-joint and an impact wrench for most of them. Jackl the front end up first and you should be able to aim up there at the nuts. There are a couple of them you have to use a stubby wrench or ratchet from the top. PB Blaster is definitely worth the extra couple bucks as it actually does something!