rusted-in bolts heat shield catalytic converter

[masscommuter]

i've pulled off rattling heat shield from cat conv,
now mechanic says he can't put on new without replacing cat conv'tr too
due to rusted-solid bolts

he said can't drill out bolts, and he disliked the thinness of metal
is there a way to put in a new heat shield?
if it means replacing cat conv'tr, does that cost a lot?

I'm mostly concerned about lower MPG, esp. with winter temps.

[Kevin Dougherty]

Use large stainless hose clamp.

[kennysmith]

Hose clamp is a good idea. I thought I had some large hose clamps, but ended up using a wire coat hanger a year ago. I had completely forgotten about it until now. Works fine.

[whereswally606]

my local honda mechanic fixed my heat shield using a jubilee clip, cost all of £2.50 and its been working great so far, touch wood. Its only been 3 days.

[Kevin Dougherty]

Originally Posted by whereswally606

my local honda mechanic fixed my heat shield using a jubilee clip, cost all of £2.50 and its been working great so far, touch wood. Its only been 3 days.

Had to Google that one.

[masscommuter]

yes . .. "jubilee clip" == "hose clamp" ( I googled it, too )

It looks like this is what I'll use,
3 inch diameter, or whatever LARGE size is needed.
THANKS to all 3 replies - each had same answer, no matter what the dialect

a 2nd ques. is how to preserve cat. conv'tr from rusting further . . .
but it looks limited so far.

[Willie Williford]

It appears the only way to get away from the rust is to move from the snow area. (Its the salt, not the snow. Blame the government)

Willie