Abstract: This invention is a method, together with an apparatus for practicing the method, wherein automotive exhaust systems, and the like, which become separated at their juncture to manifolds, or the like, by reason of breakage of fastening bolts, studs, and the like are repaired by the use of the apparatus consisting of clamping devices formed of a plurality of essentially "U" shaped frames with threaded elements in the legs of the "U" shaped frames which threaded elements engage adjacent areas of the separated exhaust system elements and draw them together by being moved through the threads into a clamping action.