Removing Muffler - MCV36 Camry

[csb]

Hello:

I'm attempting to remove the rear muffler assembly from a 36 series Camry, however I would like some suggestions from the forum.

As far as I can tell, there are 2x bolts (M16?) holding the muffler flange onto the rest of the exhaust assembly, and the muffler itself is held via hooks on rubber mounts.

I have the workshop manual for the car and it shows that regarding the flange connection, only the two bolts need to be removed. However when I inspected my particular example, I found that there was some sort of spot weld or adhesive that is on top of the bolt head, preventing a socket or wrench to apply.

My question is has anyone had experience removing the muffler from a 36 series Camry and how have they removed this joining, if there was any joining at all? Is this joining a spot weld (in this case I would not be able to remove without grinding) or is it some sort of adhesive, putty or similar that I can just chip away?

I have attached photo, which shows the joining on the muffler bolt.

Many thanks.

[csb]

Hmm, I can't seem to attach photo?

[Hiro]

The bolts don't get removed, they're essentially studs (the weld is there to stop them from rotating), you only need a spanner on the nut on the other side of the flange. The new muffler should have bolts/studs already attached to the flange.

[csb]

Thank you for the quick reply.

Could you confirm the size of the nut is M16?

[trentmeyer23]

Grab a spanner or socket and check.

[csb]

Found out today they are M14.

Any suggestion how to remove the muffler off the rubber mounts? Should I take the muffler off the mounts or take the mounts as well (bolted on with nuts but the second set is not very accessible).

With the rubber mounts, what is the best way to unfasten the muffler from the mounts, as they seem to be quite hard to remove, the muffler mounting points basically have to be pushed through the rubber which is quite stiff.

Thanks.

[Hiro]

Found out today they are M14.

Any suggestion how to remove the muffler off the rubber mounts? Should I take the muffler off the mounts or take the mounts as well (bolted on with nuts but the second set is not very accessible).

With the rubber mounts, what is the best way to unfasten the muffler from the mounts, as they seem to be quite hard to remove, the muffler mounting points basically have to be pushed through the rubber which is quite stiff.

Thanks.

If you can unbolt the mounts from the body it will make it easier, I know on the 20-series one of the mounts went through the floor/chassis into the boot area so wasn't removeable just from underneath. Best way to get the muffler hangers out of the rubber is good old lubricant and brute force - dishwashing detergent works reasonably well. Or just cut the rubber and buy new ones.

[csb]

Thank you, your info provided is much appreciated.