f*@%ing exhaust clamps

[stu.gtx]

I've finally managed to get the exhaust clamps off and removed the mesh type gasket. The VW gasket I've bought to replace it is the solid type. Anyone know if you're meant to use exhaust putty on the gasket or just leave as-is and put the clamps on?

Cheers

Stu

[81GTi]

i never used exhaust putty and it was fine, I was also changing from mesh to solid.

them clamps sure are basterds to get off, next time im trying nates rope and standing on the engine trick.

[mark1gls]

Get the right tools for the job, takes a few miniutes and really easy with the right tool. Glad I got one after trying with bits of rope etc.

[stu.gtx]

Thanks chaps.

The old mesh one looks like it's had putty on it - which I thought defeated the point of the mesh gasket to be honest.

I've bought the Sealey tool but still found it very awkward, especially the near side one as I couldn't get the clamp to fit on properly. It'd be a lot easier on a 4-post lift, but maybe I'm just a fat knacker with big clumpy hands.

[LEEP]

Thanks chaps.

The old mesh one looks like it's had putty on it - which I thought defeated the point of the mesh gasket to be honest.

I've bought the Sealey tool but still found it very awkward, especially the near side one as I couldn't get the clamp to fit on properly. It'd be a lot easier on a 4-post lift, but maybe I'm just a fat knacker with big clumpy hands.

but maybe I'm just a fat knacker with big clumpy hands.[/quote (dont put yourself stu ha ha see you sunday fella)

[stu.gtx]

I hope I get these clamps on by Sunday mate!! I've managed to get one clamp back in place but I can't get the tool undone as theres no tension between the clamp and the downpipe/manifold now. What an absolute ball ache. I don't envy anyone that does these. Now I know why the old guy at the garage that replaced the gasket the last time was cursing like mad.

[stu.gtx]

Well, dunno what the hell I was doing lastnight but I've put both clamps back on this morning in about 15 mins
Surprising what a difference a day makes.

[LEEP]

nice one dude

[mark1gls]

Glad you sorted it out, its an easy job to do with the right tools as with many jobs on a Scirocco

[davidwall]

I put the car on to some home made ramps made of bits of ply and blocks to increase the height to about 150mm (x 900 long). You dont need big steel ramps for most jobs under the engine. Then you can crawl under and easly get to the C clamps. The VW shop I use say that the wire exhaust gasket is better than the solid for some reason. The function of the gasket, apart from joint sealing, is to allow the engine movement to rotate a bit on the down pipe, like a ball and socket, without cracking it. The C clamp undoing tool is on ebay from Sealey and others for about £19 delivered and as it does Mk 1/2 Golfs as well, so is commonly advertised. `VAG exhaust tool` is the term they use.
The VW mechanics Ive spoken to advise that you grind the ends off the C clamp a bit to make a slight flat and a fractionally wider jaw- say about 2mm off each round end. It make it them a bit easier to put on. I find that you need a calm head to fiddle these on and then they go on so easily. If you are rushing or in a bad temper they are a b....tard and you can hurt youself.
Ive done the job loads of times and staying calm and thinking about the positioning of the tool makes it so easy. Block up the exhaust into final position and measure the gap that you need the C clamp to open up to. Put the clamp in the tool and wind it open in the garage vice, but pinch it only in the middle where there isnt any bending. Place tensioned clamp and tool on the manifold and carefully unwind it. There is a small groove in top of the manifold flange where the clamp will house itself. Hope this helps someone.