Exhaust manifold downpipe flange studs broke off
 

This is on the 1998 Auto.
I knew it will happen. All the studs were rusted.
3 studs broke off.
I noticed the stud heads were spot welded to the flange.
I may need to remove the front exhaust and cat to repair.

Are these studs force fit or loose fit on the flange?
Will they come off when spot welds are cut and hit with a hammer?

Thanks.

I will answer my own question.

The studs are spot welded on two spots of the flat head.
With a dremel cut off disc, I only have to put a small cut on both spot welds and wacked the stud with a hammer.
The broken stud remains came off the back side of the flange.
I was surprised to see the studs were loose fit on the flange holes.

Easy enough.
Now I have to find some SS bolts and nuts.

Yeah, stainless bolts and nuts had been holding my Midpipe to the manifold for years.

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