Chrysler Repair: Resonator replacement, female fit, cat converter

Question
Hi Roland,

Hoping you can help.  I have to replace the resonator on my car, as it has developed a small hole that is clearly getting worse with each use.  This SEEMS like a fairly easy job, because looking at it only reveals bolts on both ends which connect it to the muffler and the cat. converter.  The bolts are extremely rusted,
so I know to be as careful as possible (even bought some 'liquid wrench' spray).  What I'm not sure of is exactly how it's removed.  Does it slide into muffler/cat. converter (i.e. male-to-female fit)?  Or... is it just the bolts
holding it in place, thereby removing the bolts will literally make it 'fall off'?

Any advice / experience you have with this would be great.  Thanks for your help.

Joe

Answer
Hi Joe,
Unfortunately I don't believe that removing the bolts will simply disconnect it from the pipe, rather those will release clamps and then you will need to loosen the male-famale slide together pipes which might also be somewhat corroded and require penetrating oil. So the usual approach is to work from the back of the car foward, opening and removing one joint at a time. At least that is how the exhaust system is shown to be in the mid-'90's cars. So use the pentrating oil and wait it out.
Roland