Not having done my downpipe, yet, I was wondering if it was necessary to cut the flange on the firewall before it was pressed into position to clear the new pipe? The thought of cutting the flange here in the rust belt doesn’t sit easy with me and I’d feel better not exposing fresh metal to the elements.

Is it necessary to cut or does it just make the job easier?

 

Most just bend it out of the way...The exaust heat will insure that it is always dry there....
Rick...

 

yep just what Rick said. some cut into the lip to bend just that section out of the way some just bent it with out cutting.

BTW thanks for the help on the topper, Rick!!

 

A porto-power should be very usefull without cutting anything, I used it and was enough for a 3" DP.

 

Thanks!

I have a duckbill that's roughly 18" to 24" long. Hopefully that'll get where I need to go, otherwise I'll need to rethink how to get in there.

Yesterday was the first day I really took a look at the stock downpipe and it amazes me that Ford ever let that sorry excuse for a pipe out the door.

 

Mine is about 8 to 10", and dont forget to protect the tranny with a piece of wood.

 

Will do! Last thing I need is a broken case, thanks!

 

You're welcome....My pleasure....

 

The tranny is aluminum so just don't forget. If you need to cut I wouldn't be scared just take some paint or rust proof or undercoating in there and hose it down. You shouldn't have a problem either way. Your rear fenders will rust before anything you do.