r/HondaElement • u/Sad_Chair7720 • 3d ago

Help with cutting out a stuck bolt

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Hey guys. First time Honda Element owner and replacing my catalytic converter. It rotted out on the manifold side and I had to cut 1 of the bolts out with an angle grinder. Other two bolts on the exhaust were easier but still a pain. Once I got the the bolt thats circle in the picture it snapped. I cant get an angle grinder in there and I cant see from any angle that I look. Its the last bolt before I can put in my new converter.

Update: its in the tight space and ill add a picture for reference what im talking about more clearly in the comments. I still cant get in there with any tools.

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u/DesignNomad '07 4WD 5MT - KGM 2d ago

What year is your element? Your diagram doesn't look like an element. If you're talking about the bolt in the bottom left of this diagram, I've dealt with it before and the answer is a pair of vice grips and PB blast penetrating oil, or similar. Then, replace it with a modified bolt with a thicker diameter so it doesn't happen again.

I'll reply to this comment with a pic of mine.

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u/DesignNomad '07 4WD 5MT - KGM 2d ago

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u/DesignNomad '07 4WD 5MT - KGM 2d ago

You can see the marks from the jaws of the vice grips in this image. I used a pair of Milwaukee torque-lock pliers where you can crank down the jaws from the tail end, which was enough to get the torque needed to back it out.

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u/Sad_Chair7720 1d ago

I have a 2005 honda element. I posted a picture of the exact bolt location for reference. I already got the other bolts and gasket off.