I recently removed the 4 nuts from the exhaust manifold to the down pipe. It wasn't too difficult from under the car, but my car was in Alaska where we don't use road salt so rust isn't a big issue. I just used 3/8 rachet and various length extensions. I did use a swivel joint extension on one or two of the nuts. It is of course critical to get the socket on as squarely as possible and be sure it is down on the nut and not only partially on. I did have to carefully tap the socket onto at least one nut due to rust build up, but again it is critical that the socket go on as squarely as possible. Take your time as you know ruining the nut heads can lead to a much longer procedure. I didn't find the nuts to be extremely tight. I hope it goes well for you. Dwight