Well, if you've read any of my threads previously posted this week, you might have noticed I've been fighting a serious battle getting my camaro back on the road. Today alone I had to drive two towns over to get ahold of a new panhard bar flare nut (best $.69 I've ever spent, much sturdier than the lost one, and 21MM at that) And for the most part, ive gotten the rear put back together, short of one problem. Exhaust.

The "I Pipe" is seized to the muffler. I try with all I've got to get it in its rubber hangar (Passenger side, stock setup), to no avail. When I move the muffler to get it lined up correctly, the pipe hits the catalytic converter, stopping it from sliding into place. I've PB coated the pipe going to the muffler time and time again, in hopes to knock it loose from the pipe, and that ain't happening. I even tried as far as removing the cat itself, but the clamp is rusted and will not budge.

I'm trying to get it all back together before I troubleshoot the fuel system any further (note: it's more than likely the fuel filter, maybe even relay.. not the fuel pump), and am doing this whole operation alone. Again, if you've read my previous posts, you'd understand that I am absolutely terrified of jackstands at this point, and would like to leave that as a last option. Using heat to unstick the muffler doesnt appeal to me either, considering I am unexperienced and lack the proper tools.

Could anyone give me any insight as to properly approach this last hurdle? I promise after this is solved, I will do more to attempt to answer questions, rather than asking.

Any insight/suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Seeing the light at the end of the tunnel now...

Thanks.

Edit: I just noticed I had already asked this question.. d'oh. Mods do as you will.. I am at your mercy at this point.

 

Thanks to all who have viewed this thread. It's a shame no one had any insight or suggestions for my predicament.

Once I get the fuel system functioning again, if no one can shed any light into my exhaust problem, then I plan on tieing up the cat pipe as best as I can, and driving it to a shop. Hence, sadly, another question:

What kind of shop would be best suited to do such a task, and how much would I be looking at paying to get it bolted back up?

Thanks.