I have an 02 also. I used mbrp and the pipe went in with no problem. Thats not what you wanted to hear, I know, but I want to help in some way. I did mine in an hour with the help of my father in law. He held the down pipe up so I could attach the clamp. I know you have to turn the bend in the pipe so it will "work" into the space, but once in mine fit like a glove with room to spare.