right now I have the Pacesetter header for my ECOTEC. I was thinking of putting on a flexpipe since I am going to have some exhaust work done soon (I am getting the high flow cat and my resonator moved back due to heat shield clearnce issues).

Anyhow, my question is, can I just have the downpipe welded on to the header and do away with the ball and socket joint and the screws with springs as long as I add the flexipipe at the end of the downpipe?

I do have both upper and lower motor mounts, so is this even something I need to address?

Thanks

if its not worth it to get rid of the ball and socket