how to remove rearmost muffler/exhaust hanger bracket

retrocycler · Post by **retrocycler** » 18 Mar 2025, 12:38

I need help figuring out how to remove the rearmost exhaust hanger bracket (2001 V70 rear exhaust hanger bracket 9179018) which is bolted to the frame right by the bumper. It is connected to the heat shield above the muffler by some kind of fastener, but I can't figure out how. I've unbolted the bracket from the frame, but can't get it out, because of this connection to the heat shield. I would like to get that bracket out without having to remove the whole muffler. Has anyone faced this problem, or can you offer guidance?

Post by **br0dy519** » 18 Mar 2025, 13:58

I think it's a rivet by memory, drill it out.

retrocycler · Post by **retrocycler** » 20 Mar 2025, 09:53

Thanks for replies! Indeed a rivet. Long part faces down, so there's no way getting a drill bit on it. Can't get shears or angle grinder in there to cut it off. A stupid problem! I'll post again once I have some joy to report.

Post by **jonesg** » 20 Mar 2025, 10:14

Try a long chisel and hammer it.

Post by **850 LPT** » 20 Mar 2025, 12:23

I just looked at this too because I had to loosen up that bracket to get my hitch installed. What a crummy design that is.

retrocycler · Post by **retrocycler** » 05 May 2025, 17:43

I thought I'd update anyone following this. I ended up getting a small dremel tool with a small cut-off wheel on that rivet and got it out that way. After I got the bracket out, I removed the rust and repainted it with a "rust-eating" Rustoleum primer/paint product, and it now sits in my spare parts bin (not that I'll ever need it. If you need it, LMK). The reason it is permanently off the car is that I finagled a hanger onto my "custom" hitch receiver project - I just welded a long bolt onto the part of the receiver that bolted up into the frame there. That would not have fit with the original hanger bracket there... it took the place of the hanger bracket.