ok, im refering to the spring bolts at the cat and the downpipe, what are they useful for? the deal is i have a complete aftermarket exahust system; header, cat, and greddy exhaust. the oem springs that i put back in place are causing me problems. the downpipe and cat just cant get snug enough. a gap occures when ever I press hard on the gas and you can hear and feel the leak. I am certain it is from that spot, i have done extensive research into that. the springs are completely compressed by the way. I have some shorter bolts and some washers and I figure I must do without the springs to get a snug fit and stop my exhaust leak. so what are the negatives of doing without the springs? thanks in advance.

 

i wouldnt do it. i stripped one and just put a regular screw and bolt in there and it made a horrible rattling noise

 

i dont know how it would make a difference for me though. like i said, the springs are completly compressed. so basicly its as if there is just a piece of solid medal in between. if the springs are suppose to be some type of cushion or stress reliever they arent exactly working in that manner right now.

 

When I changed my exhaust a while back I thought I needed new spring nuts because the factory exhaust used them. So I went to the hardware store and assembled something similar. Doesn't cost too much, but seriously, a regular nut would work just the same.

 

maybe you could find another set of spring bolts and shorten them so they won't compress all the way when you tighten them