Exhaust - Driveshaft - Control Arm Issue

[PXM]

I'm out of my depth here and seeking advise.

My old exhaust was beat to hell from the u-joint when I purchased the Jeep to the point that clearance wasn't an issue, so I never tried to loosen the flange bolts and adjust it. I've just replaced the cat (Davico Catalytic Converter - 19281) and O2 sensors, and I can't get clearance on the u-joint. I've tried pushing toward passenger but it hits the control arm. I'm wondering if this is because of the motor mount lift? It seems that if it were lower the elbow wouldn't hit the control arm laterally, but then could possible be damaged by vertical movement of the control arm.

I was considering removing the front drive shaft and driving it to a muffler shop to have them modify the exhaust, but figured I'd ask for guidance from the group first.

Here's what's on the Jeep with that may be contributing to the problem, with the exception of the rear shocks/springs. I did the front when I replaced the steering knuckles as it was a no brainer a that point... I'm guilty of procrastinating on the rear.

• JKS 8100 1" Motor Mount Lift Kit
• JKS ‎OGS126 Track Bar
• JKS 9904 1-1/4" Body Lift
• Metalcloak 10" Quick Disconnects (7018)
• Front - Old Man Emu Part #: 2933 1.5" Heavy (no trim ring) & OME Nitrocharger Sport shocks
• Rear - Old Man Emu Part #: 2942 2" Medium-Heavy (no trim ring) & OME Nitrocharger Sport shocks - REAR NOT INSTALLED YET!
• Original Motor Mounts: old & tired, new ones ordered (A-Premium APEM997)
• Tires: 305/70r16

I've got a couple of questions:

• Are the rear shocks/springs not being installed contributing to this?
• Is this what's to be expected with a "budget friendly" aftermarket cat?
• Have I screwed things up by not having a comprehensive plan when adding stuff?
• If I remove the driveshaft is the control arm going to cause damage to the new cat?
• What should my next steps be?

I've attached a few pics for reference, including one of the original cat.

Thanks in advance for the guidance!

​

 

[macleanflood]

I welded my own down pipe for clearance and added a v band clamp just inside the skid plate to make disconnecting the front section of exhaust easier.

-Mac

 

[KennethS]

• Are the rear shocks/springs not being installed contributing to this?

What? No rear springs?

 

[lBasket]

Kinda just looks like the piping after the cat don't fit right to me. Too long before the bend

 

[PXM]

Kinda just looks like the piping after the cat don't fit right to me. Too long before the bend

That's what I'm thinking.

 

[lBasket]

That's what I'm thinking.

Would be an easy fix for an exhaust shop. Or you could just try cutting some out and using a coupler to rejoin it without welding?

 

[PXM]

What? No rear springs?

Rear springs are still factory. I haven't installed the Old Man Emu's yet and didn't know if this could be contributing to the issue.

 

[PXM]

I just had the neighbor check for clearance on the passenger side front control arm while I bounced my fat ass up & down on the front bumper. He said it actually moves away from the exhaust, so I'm moving forward with removing the front drive shaft and heading to an exhaust shop tomorrow. That is unless I should install the rear springs & shocks and new motor mounts first. I'm not sure if these would change anything. Thoughts?

 

[macleanflood]

Yeah I'd install all the new parts. You need to drive it and align it and make sure there are no vibrations or issues. Last thing you want to do is adjust the exhaust.

-Mac