Exhaust System-failed smog test

[jenc1121]

I failed my smog test b/c of a broken flex pipe. The mechanic is trying to charge me an arm and a leg. I was wondering how difficult this procedure is. We found a part and are pretty good with cars. Is this a huge pain or something we could do our selves?

[david-b]

The flex pipe is kinda hard to change. You have to take off the downpipe and disconnect it from the cat. Also will be a bitch from the rust. I would suggest (if your looking to mod) replace the whole exhaust. However, this does cost, and it's not worth it at times. Check around for prices. An exhaust shop should not charge too much for it.

[defiancy]

Also if you have access to an impact gun/drill it will make those rusted bolts come out pretty easy.

[jenc1121]

We have pretty good tools, the problem is funds are very low. The mechanic already charged an arm and leg for the diagnostic, plus the smog test. We just need to know if this is something we can do on our own, without totally screwing our selves! Does anyone know the best way to go about changing the flex pipe? We also need to change the cad. converter, but I heard that is pretty easy.

[gthompson97]

if you need to change both then do them at the same time. you'll have to take off all the exhaust from the downpipe till after the cat. just soak the rusted bolts with some PB Blaster the night before you work on it and then about 5 mins before your gonna work on it and they should come out pretty easy. it's not that tough of a job, the toughest part is getting the rusted bolts loose if they try and fight you.