Downpipe to main exhaust, studs or bolts?

The other day I heard an exhaust leak. I lifted the car up to find with joy that it was the seal between the downpipe and the main pipe. See position of gasket at position 6 here. Great! Since I had removed the exhaust to do the clutch a few months ago, I figured it had just come loose. 1/8 turn on a wrench later and I'm holding half the bolt and nut in my hands. $***%

So now the question, is the threaded end a bolt that can be replaced, or a stud that is part of the down pipe/cat assembly? It looks like the latter, but I pray to the budget gods that it isn't

Before I use a BFH, does anyone know or have advice?

Edit: the forum is changing the link, replacing the middle with "LINK-BLOCKED". I'll c/p it straight and hope that works.
http://bmwfans-LINK-BLOCKED-parts/ca...with_catalyst/
Edit2: wtf? Do we have something against BMWFan diagrams?

I'll brb with the diagram, but if I'm right it's a replaceable stud...which many have had some wrestling matches with...and which although is a $20 bolt or something stupid like that, many have found cheaper alternatives.

Search me, incolnel, and GoingNuts

BRB...


#5, 6 (gasket) and 7 is what you need. Confirm on your car by entering your vin, but I'm sure it's the same.

You'll see only the nut listed if you search exhaust only.

Originally Posted by dmax

I'll brb with the diagram, but if I'm right it's a replaceable stud...which many have had some wrestling matches with...and which although is a $20 bolt or something stupid like that, many have found cheaper alternatives.

Search me, incolnel, and GoingNuts

BRB...


#5, 6 (gasket) and 7 is what you need. Confirm on your car by entering your vin, but I'm sure it's the same.

You'll see only the nut listed if you search exhaust only.

The problem is that #6 there is a hex head, which mine do not have. Mine are flat heads with a notch that prevents them from spinning. It's also not clear where that hex bolt is supposed to go by looking at that diagram. I searched by vin and I get the same diagram. Maybe I'll just take a BFH to it and see if I can get it to pop out despite the rust. If so I can try to thread and length match it.

Originally Posted by Earendil

The problem is that #6 there is a hex head, which mine do not have. Mine are flat heads with a notch that prevents them from spinning. It's also not clear where that hex bolt is supposed to go by looking at that diagram. I searched by vin and I get the same diagram. Maybe I'll just take a BFH to it and see if I can get it to pop out despite the rust. If so I can try to thread and length match it.

I should have been more precise with my previous post. The stud is pressed in place, so if it fails, you have to knock it out. The BMW replacement is a hex head bolt with some very unique dimensions to line up in the exhaust manifold where the stud used to be. The replacement part is not a direct replacement, but more of a factory designed repair solution.

Originally Posted by mkodama

I should have been more precise with my previous post. The stud is pressed in place, so if it fails, you have to knock it out. The BMW replacement is a hex head bolt with some very unique dimensions to line up in the exhaust manifold where the stud used to be. The replacement part is not a direct replacement, but more of a factory designed repair solution.

Wonderful info! Looks like Pelican sells the bolt for $25, which is a damn expensive bolt! But at least I know it's been designed for that application. Thanks for the information!

It's a replaceable stud, easy to order from the dealership or a site sponsor.

link doesn't work bro..

im 100% positive its not that hard to find.. ill try and find one real quick. no promises

realoem lists that bolt for $22 or so, which usually means you can find it at dealer for about that cost or online for about 40% less.

Try bmaparts.com bavauto.com and search the 'incolnel' bolt thread...there was a big fight...many just use good grade bolts...not sure how good an idea that is, but in the scheme of things, could be worse!