Another DP Install question(s)

[helievacpilot]

Now that spring is around the corner, going to tackle the 3in. downpipe install in my 96 f350. First, cutting out the old one. Any reason not to use my buddy's plasma cutter instead of the saws-all?
Second, going to use a porta-power to "re-size" the firewall so hoping no issues there?
Third, can I retain the heat blanket on the firewall if I give myself enough room with the porta-power?
Thanks - Bill

[Patrick Feeley]

I don't see why you couldn't use the plasma cutter provided you aare careful (heck its pretty easy to whack through the uppipe with the sawzall if you're not careful). You want to keep the heat shielding on the firewall, and the seam will be lower than it (you'll see when you get in there. Cheers!

[helievacpilot]

Thanks for the info. Now if I can just get the weather to cooperate!

[dhanna6powerstroke]

My buddy caught his 97 on fire using a plasma cutter. It's easy to cut with a sawzall.

[cntryboy17]

Why not just use a sawzall it takes like 30 seconds

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I847 using AutoGuide.Com Free App

[helievacpilot]

In reading other install posts, it seemed that some really wrestled with the saws-all method. I have access to the plasma cutter, so I figured why not?
- Bill

[dhanna6powerstroke]

Get a fire extinguisher.

[boynamedsue]

Please dont be offended for my pointing out the obvious but as a welder and lover of fresh cut metal, I always look for flammables in the background of my worksite. Be cautious of leaked oil, fuel and any other flammable substance to properly avoid a cataclysmic fire in your beloved truck.

[helievacpilot]

Originally Posted by boynamedsue

Please dont be offended for my pointing out the obvious but as a welder and lover of fresh cut metal, I always look for flammables in the background of my worksite. Be cautious of leaked oil, fuel and any other flammable substance to properly avoid a cataclysmic fire in your beloved truck.

No offense taken. I fly people all the time that have done really stupid things with flamables. If I can't do it safely, without threat of fire, the saws-all will be second at-bat.

[Patrick Feeley]

I used a 9" Bi-metal blade with plenty of cutting fluid and didn't have any issues. Cheers!