Abstract: A method of forming an exhaust gas conduit tube wherein a plurality of captured take-up slots in the tubular wall define a deformable region near a free end of the tube, which region will cooperate with clamping means encircling the region to clamp the tube to a second tube inserted telescopically therein. The captured nature of the slots enhances the structural integrity of the tube end. The method includes forming the apertures along an edge of flat steel stock, rolling the steel stock into a tube wherein the apertures are adjacent a free end and welding the longitudinal seam. The free end portion is further flared for strength and to facilitate entry of a second tube.