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Best tool for cutting exhaust pipe while still attached to car?

Old 12-07-2010, 03:24 PM
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skyavonee
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Default Best tool for cutting exhaust pipe while still attached to car?

I figure an exhaust pipe cutter won't work since I won't be able to get all the way around the pipe at the top where it's closest to the car's floor (right?).
Torch is no good since I would likely hurt myself or the car.
So a reciprocating saw is my only option... right?
Old 12-07-2010, 03:28 PM
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memphis_vette
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maybe a grinder with a big cut off wheel?

Last edited by memphis_vette; 12-07-2010 at 03:35 PM.
Old 12-07-2010, 03:33 PM
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srs244
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i use a pneumatic 3" grinder and it works well. basically all you need to do is work the sides of the pipe and you can then get across the top without a problem. the 3" is small enough to be able to get into tighter spaces so it works well.
Old 12-07-2010, 03:35 PM
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Sawzall
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Old 12-07-2010, 03:38 PM
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Patches
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Originally Posted by dougbfresh
Sawzall
Old 12-07-2010, 04:00 PM
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imavettegirl
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sawzall or something like it.

or, go to exhaust shop.
Old 12-07-2010, 04:01 PM
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Originally Posted by dougbfresh
Sawzall
YUP
Old 12-07-2010, 04:12 PM
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wcsinx
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I used a chain type cutter when I installed my x-pipe.

Plenty of room ... worked like a charm

Old 12-07-2010, 04:25 PM
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Originally Posted by wcsinx
I used a chain type cutter when I installed my x-pipe.

Plenty of room ... worked like a charm
Excellent! This is exactly what I wanted to use but was afraid wouldn't be able to get around the top of the pipe. I'm installing a Borla X-pipe, hopefully this weekend.

Thanks all for the responses
Old 12-07-2010, 05:01 PM
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I second the "chain type" pipe cutter. I just did a Corsa X-Pipe and Corsa Indy Pace Car mufflers. Without this tool it would have been much more difficult. If you have an "Oreilly Auto Parts or similar store, check their "tool loaner" program. I borrowed the tool...brand new never used for a small deposit! Worked great!
Old 12-07-2010, 05:16 PM
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Originally Posted by skyavonee
Excellent! This is exactly what I wanted to use but was afraid wouldn't be able to get around the top of the pipe. I'm installing a Borla X-pipe, hopefully this weekend.

Thanks all for the responses
There's plenty of room between the pipes and tunnel to swing the chain over. (A sawzall would actually require more room) I borrowed the tool from Autozone.
Old 12-07-2010, 05:21 PM
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Bills03Coupe
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Originally Posted by wcsinx
I used a chain type cutter when I installed my x-pipe.

Plenty of room ... worked like a charm

This is definitely the way to go. Makes a clean cut, without any jagged edges. Very little clearance is needed to swing the chain over the pipe.
Old 12-07-2010, 05:28 PM
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Chain cutter is the correct tool. They work great. Just be sure to oil it well when you're cutting. They don't work well when dry.
Old 12-07-2010, 05:30 PM
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Originally Posted by skyavonee
I figure an exhaust pipe cutter won't work since I won't be able to get all the way around the pipe at the top where it's closest to the car's floor (right?).
Torch is no good since I would likely hurt myself or the car.
So a reciprocating saw is my only option... right?
Reciprocating saw with a proper blade is your best option. I watched my mechanic cut my pipes in a tight spot and it went through like a hot knife through the proverbial butter! It was a nice clean cut to. Good luck.
Old 12-07-2010, 06:49 PM
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CHJ In Virginia
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Originally Posted by Bills03Coupe
This is definitely the way to go. Makes a clean cut, without any jagged edges. Very little clearance is needed to swing the chain over the pipe.
This type of chain cutter is your best option. It is quick, delivers a clean cut, and does not give any chance of torching anything. They are available for less than $30.
Old 12-07-2010, 07:50 PM
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I've used all of the methods suggested and the chain cutter is the best in my opinion. It's hard to get a perfectly straight cut with a sawzall and the pipes can bounce causing the blade to bind.
Old 12-07-2010, 08:17 PM
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Originally Posted by wcsinx
I used a chain type cutter when I installed my x-pipe.

Plenty of room ... worked like a charm

pretty

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Old 12-07-2010, 09:42 PM
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Originally Posted by dougbfresh
Sawzall
Should do the job just fine - just take it slow.
Old 12-07-2010, 10:09 PM
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Originally Posted by wcsinx
I used a chain type cutter when I installed my x-pipe.

Plenty of room ... worked like a charm

best thing ever i have the snap on one
Old 12-07-2010, 10:38 PM
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I went to Autozone - they rent tools like the chain cutter and pipe expander. They run you credit card for the cost of the tool and when you return it they credit it all back to your card. Hard to beat Free.
I needed the pipe expander to get my X pipe on.

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