GWR muffler install advice

[captaincabinets]

Hi all

Having a little difficulty installing my new GWR RS3 muffler on my '98 NB. Apologies if I've missed something obvious, I am new to modifying my car myself, but after reading the reviews and install instructions, it sounded pretty easy.

So I've removed the OEM muffler and am at the point where I'm fitting the new one. I'm having a couple of issues:

1) The stock midpipe has some bolts on it which don't seem to come off, I guess the ones supplied are only needed if you are also installing the RS midpipe? That would be fine but they seem to be about 1mm too narrow to fit the new flange on. I've tried to WD40 them but not sure what to do there. Should I file the holes on the RS3 slightly to fit? Should I try and bend the bolts out? More WD40 and patience?

2) The holes on the gasket provided seem to be for the RS midpipe rather than the stock midpipe. Should I drill new holes into it? The OEM midpipe flange is looking a bit rusty and sad, I feel like the gasket would give a better fit.

Advice much appreciated.

[NitroDann]

Probably easiest to remove the OEM studs.

[captaincabinets]

Thanks Dann. Any tips on how to do this?

[NitroDann]

do they screw in or press in I honestly cannot remember.

If they press in, use a hammer to smack them back out, if they wind in google: 'double nut method'.

Dann

[captaincabinets]

I left the stock bolts in, in the end, as they were narrower.

I had to drill out both gasket and flange to fit, and when I finally did get it to fit, it leaks anyway. I have now tried the drilled gasket only, the drilled gasket plus the stock gasket (clutching at straws), and now I've waited 24 hours after using high-temp gasket sealer. All of these have resulted in similar significant exhaust leaks.

Not sure how this has happened. Is there a difference between the NB8A and NB8B exhaust system? I'm surprised that I seem to be the first person that's had this issue.

Help much appreciated.