hypervish

You're welcome!

As Salim mentioned above, there is no need for lock/flat washers in this case. I did not use any.

salimshah

I forgot to welcome you.

A warm welcome to CL.

You are in excellent hands with Thomas.

Salim

tllee

I took out my bolts by grind it . It took only 5 mins and no need to soak it by WD-40 and wait for 3 days. The old bolts and nuts are pretty rust out, I did not want to re-use it. The new bolts and nuts cost a couple of dollars only, I spend 2 more dollars to get stainless one, It will last out my pipe and will be easy to be removed next time. It doesn't make sense to re-use old bolts and nuts unless yours are in good condition(it's very unlikely).
Hint: use some copper RTV(can resist up to 650F) to cover your gasket, otherwise you'll have high possibility to encounter the leaking problem(I had this problem but copper RTV solve it)

mroxas

Hi
Can I use a high temp primer and paint (I see VHT SPxxx able to withstand 2K degC) on these ?

My catalytic converter (one with oxygen sensor stick in) have many pin holes and I plan to change next. Thinking of primer and paint too.

Thanks,
Mike

fastnoypi

yes, imo its costly for something that will be under the car and have no added performance effect. VHT flame proof works well and lasts longer than BBQ paints. If you really want to the pipe to last, send it off for Jet Hot coating, expect a week turn around time.

RX300CE

165K miles it's time to replace a new flex pipe, I did it yesterday, everything is good very quite now, thanks Hypervish

artbuc

Looks like you did not use the special studs/lock nuts specifically designed for exhaust systems. You might want to keep an eye on those bolts to make sure they stay tight.

RX300CE

I bought 4 bolts and 2 nuts from dealer, I don't need 4 nuts because 2 front nuts welded, I don't have problems take out front one but yeah rear bolts/nuts all rusted so I have to cut it, it's super tight now (no leak) , walker flex pipe, 2 walker exhaust gaskets .

rickl289

Nice writeup Hypervish.

This is one of the best things Lexus did over Toyota. I'ved had to cut/weld Camry flex pipes but the Lexus is bolt in. It was much easier job. The ironic thing was it just pointed out other exhaust leaks.

lastplace

My son is complaining about exhaust smells. I assume the flex pipe is the issue. Thank You for the great write up and part numbers.

salimshah

Please dont diagnose based on hunches.

If you have a helper and can crawl under, it is an easy diagnosis.

Salim

lastplace

I'll verify before ordering parts.

rickl289

Here is another exhaust thread that may help too

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...omponents.html