Any secrets for A.I.R. tube removal?

[Mathew S.]

Working on getting some old smog tubes out of the exhaust manifolds, while still on the car. I had no issues removing all but cylinder 5,7, and 8. Currently they are getting sprayed with penetrating oil (CRC Knock er lose). Not concerned with saving the tubes since they are cracked and rusted out, but would like to avoid pulling the manifolds.

[Sal C.]

Re: Any secrets for A.I.R. tube removal?

No substitute for heat.

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: Any secrets for A.I.R. tube removal?

Also, if you don't want to save the tubes, cut them off close to the nut so you can put a good socket on it. It's a lot better than an open end wrench or even a good line wrench.
Jeff

[Joe L.]

Re: Any secrets for A.I.R. tube removal?

Also, if you don't want to save the tubes, cut them off close to the nut so you can put a good socket on it. It's a lot better than an open end wrench or even a good line wrench.
Jeff

Jeff------


Yes, definitely. And, using an impact socket with a high torque impact tool might be enough by itself.

[Peter M.]

Re: Any secrets for A.I.R. tube removal?

Mathew,
Are you trying to get the tube assemblies off or get the extension tubes out of the manifold?

[David H.]

Re: Any secrets for A.I.R. tube removal?

Mathew,
Are you trying to get the tube assemblies off or get the extension tubes out of the manifold?

Mathew

If issue is getting extension tubes out... I made a simple tool from stiff coat hanger wire. Put a hook at wire's end, and trim so that hook end just goes in tube. Grab (hook) inside edge of tube with tool and extract.

Dave

[Joe L.]

Re: Any secrets for A.I.R. tube removal?

Mathew

If issue is getting extension tubes out... I made a simple tool from stiff coat hanger wire. Put a hook at wire's end, and trim so that hook end just goes in tube. Grab (hook) inside edge of tube with tool and extract.

Dave

Dave——-

The extension tubes often have considerable encrustation with combustion products on the external surface of the tube. When this occurs they cannot be removed by the method you mention. In that case, they have to be driven out from the inner end with the encrustation sheared off as the tube is driven through the manifold.

[David H.]

Re: Any secrets for A.I.R. tube removal?

Dave——-

The extension tubes often have considerable encrustation with combustion products on the external surface of the tube. When this occurs they cannot be removed by the method you mention. In that case, they have to be driven out from the inner end with the encrustation sheared off as the tube is driven through the manifold.

Joe

Sounds like a PITA. I guess just lucky for me, "hook and tug" and out they came!

Looks like, some "dis-assembly" required.

Dave