Friday quiz

[stickandrudderman]

Who can guess why i would weld a couple of random bolts to a new exhaust before fitting?

[Pawel66]

To be able to move it/turn it when it is being fitted, particularly if hot?

[Bshaunessy]

STICKANDRUDDERMAN
 I recently installed a complete new exhaust system (1970 280 SL Auto) from exhaust manifold to tailpipes….what a PITA!
I’m guessing the welded bolts have something to do with proper alignment?l…regardless….I am all ears as I’m sure your tip would have made my recent install a little simpler?

[rwmastel]

Who can guess why i would weld a couple of random bolts to a new exhaust before fitting?

Because you're a bit looney?   . LOL

I think the first reply is correct.

[mnahon]

To attach an emissions sensor?

[djack]

In order to adjust sections together or apart during assembly for proper fitment?

[kampala]

To change the tinny sound (tone) of a new exhaust system?

[mdsalemi]

Maybe to provide a good place to attach grounding or other clamps?

[clunker]

Since these are random bolts, not carefully aligned (given Colin’s standards) these are maybe intended to be removed after fitting - and hence these likely be on the underside of the exhaust to access/remove once installed. Maybe they used to pull / hold the exhaust together in place for welding when lowered after test fit? Maybe they are simply temporary end stops for the tailpipe sleeves?

[Leester]

Just a guess but it looks like you installed the bolts on the upper rearmost pipes and if they could provide proper clearance between pipes and underbody of the car. And removed for final installation. Agreeing with Bshaunessy Clunker. 

[stickandrudderman]

Pawel and Clunker are both on the right lines.
Installing a welded exhaust requires the sliding joints to be moved in and out multiple times until the correct alignment is achieved. Sometimes these sliding joints can be guite resistant to movement and require the use of a “tapometer”…..
I’ve seen lots of exhausts where the tapometer has been applied to the middle box and caused damage so I weld something to the underside of the exhaust to give me something to hit with  the tapometer. Once everything is lined up and welded I remove them.

[Pawel66]

There was some serious prize here if I recall correctly....

[JamesL]

Does it involve the tapometer?

[ctaylor738]

Good one, Stick!

Cheers,

CT

[rwmastel]

I have an old stainless steel exhaust system that I plan to put on my 230SL next spring.  I was cleaning it up today to store away and caught my gloves on some rough spots, probably caused by vice grips or similar.  Immediately thought of this thread!

https://youtu.be/oPq9DZ0v1XQ?feature=shared

[lurtch]

These are alignment dowels for those difficult-to-install, but self lubricating, muffler bearings.