[CRZY]

The 2 pipes in the image attached below will not slide into each other. It’s the pipe that is attached to the downpipe and the “midpipe” i am having problems with.. Ive tried every angle, but it just won’t slide in.. Any tips?

https://www.vr-speed.com/vrsf-3-5-st...35i-335xi.html

[Scubudo]

Here you go.

https://www.harborfreight.com/exhaus...rge-59698.html

[E93Seattle (Racerbruce)]

it appears the gloved-hand piece has been flared to accept the other pipe, but perhaps not flared enough?

the pipe expander may be a pragmatic solution instead of sending it back and waiting for another to arrive that is hopefully flared correctly.

curious if any others have experienced this issue.

[CRZY]

Originally Posted by E93Seattle (Racerbruce)

it appears the gloved-hand piece has been flared to accept the other pipe, but perhaps not flared enough?

the pipe expander may be a pragmatic solution instead of sending it back and waiting for another to arrive that is hopefully flared correctly.

Yeah, it could’ve been a solution, but as stated on the website it is not for stainless steel pipes 😅

[Scubudo]

It may not be for stainless, but since it looks like the pipe is already mostly flared, I wouldn't hesitate to give it a try (unless time is not an issue, and you prefer return and wait for a replacement).

I try to pre-plan my projects, and when things like this pop up, I hate having to put things on hold to wait for parts...so I would try to fix before delaying completion.

Other options would be:
Try some dry ice on the smaller side and heat on the larger one. If that works, it will guarantee a tight fit.
Cut some slits in the larger pipe to help get the smaller started in the opening.
Consider having a local exhaust shop use a heavier duty expander (most that work with stainless could also cut and weld.
Make your own swag tool out of pipe (but if you knew how to do that, you wouldn't be here asking).