Just about to fit a new rear box on the Freelander ahead of an MOT. The last two I’ve removed when they’ve rusted to the point of failing, where I’ve had to use a Dremel to separate from main pipe. Not a problem, when the rear box is headed for the tip.

I’m going to have to spend a few summer days attending to the rust on the vehicle and the rear subframe this year. Is it ok to put some copper grease on the slip joint between the box and the pipe, to make life a bit easier for removal, so I can access the areas much easier?

I’m using a stainless clamp to secure the two parts, so that should be easy enough to deal with.

Maybe separating the two won’t be an issue having only been joined for 2-3 months (hopefully), rather than the usual ~5 years a rear box is normally on for, and I’m overthinking things with needing the copper grease, which might cause other issues?

My view would be a smear of any grease would help with sticking and rusting.
Copper slip is designed for dissimilar metals usually.
I usually smear light grease on as it helps push the sections fully home.

Brake anti-seize will work well to prevent exhaust slip joints from sticking, but keep in mind that the clamp will also distort the tubing, making removal more difficult than an unclamped joint.

Thanks Andy, Nodge. I will keep both points in mind. And good to know I shouldn't end up creating a stinking mess in using something. Hopefully too, as it's only going to be 3 or 4 months before I take it off again to give the corrosion on the vehicle and subframe some attention, it won't be anywhere near the rusting crumbling mess I usually have to twist and cut off. Thanks again.