I have an O.S. LA .40 (about two years old) and I was wondering if it's possible to "twist" the exhaust port half on the muffler so it points down instead of right across the wing of my trainer...

I've taken off the screw and bolt from the two ends (front & rear) - but the thing won't budge. Is it even possible? Any suggestions on how to un-stick it?

Try running the engine with the through bolt removed. The rear half of the muffler should be blown off.

Nope - Didn't work...

Even with a wrench, it won't budge. (I'm afraid to bend the aluminum, so I'm not twisting with all my muscle, but enough to tell it's on there really good.) Is there some sort of aluminum-safe solvent I could soak it in?

It won't loosen after running? man you must have some serious castor build up in the joint[X(]

Get some car anti-freeze, put enough to cover the muffler in a crock pot and simmer it until it falls apart... you could also use a small pot on the stove to do this... be very careful not to contact the open flame with the anti-freeze... it will burn! heat on LOW flame and make sure you have ventilation. A nice bonus is your muffler will look new. Remember, once you put the anti freeze in the crock pot/pot it's no longer safe to use for food.

John

vinman, the crock pot/ anti-freeze like John said would work for sure. Also, if you have some penetrating oil and a heat gun, that method should free it up quick. I've never seen one stuck that bad. Look for a heli-arc bead around the joint (just kidding).

When you get it apart, open up the exhaust nozzle to 1/4" with a drill. It makes a noticeable difference in performance.

APIA - I did, finally, get that damned muffler apart using the anti-freeze soak method. I also drilled out the exhaust (like you suggested) and I did notice a performance improvement. Thanks!