ALT-1 Exhaust Leak Diagnosing
Correctly, diagnosing an exhaust leak might sound like a slightly daunting task, especially considering that not every fissure or leak purports the same obvious symptoms. Although it can be true that many minor exhaust leaks can go undetected for some time, or at least until metal fatigue or rust eventually causes some form of major breach; there are a few easy and simple ways to diagnose an exhaust leak. Most of which, require very little expertise or expensive gadgetry, save a jack, a piece of cardboard, and the employ of a few natural senses.
One of the first steps that can be taken is to take the time to learn a little more about the exhaust system, and what is its true purpose. The first and most fundamental function of an exhaust system is to channel harmful gas, produced during fossil fuel combustion, away from the interior compartment of your vehicle. The secondary role of the exhaust system in today's modern vehicle is to reduce the amount of harmful emissions being expelled into the atmosphere. Lastly, the final stage of an exhaust system is to decrease the amount of noise generated by your vehicle's motor.
Primary components:
The catalytic converter, also known, as the Cat is an amazingly simplistic device, which traps most of the harmful particles expelled during fuel combustion. The converter can normally be found close to the engine compartment, near the front axle. Most converter models are rectangular with rounded sides, appearing almost like a flattened tube. Since its inception in 1975, catalytic converters are required and in good health in order for a vehicle to pass an emissions test.
The muffler or silencer is another necessary component in an exhaust system. Depending on manufacture, model or exhaust system type, the most common type can be found around either the left or right rear axle. Most factory mufflers come in a standard wide-oval design. Although, high performance models can come in various shapes and sizes.
The last part of the exhaust system is used to control and interconnect all the components of an exhaust system. The tubing usually snakes and bends appropriately to avoid any moving parts, and is fixed by specially designed harnesses or hangers, which is offer some lenience to everyday driving. Exhaust pipe diameter and length is directly proportionate to the size of the vehicle's motor, and is often twisted or bent specifically by factory design.
Diagnosing a problem:
1.) The most common symptom of an exhaust leak is most likely to be audible. Random sounds like thumping, clanking or other rattling noises are a good indication that the last bump, curb, or dip in the road did more than just cause your favorite CD to skip. Either way, almost any undercarriage noise should be considered a possible early warning sign. A sudden increase in the noise omitted from your motor, undeniably is an indication of either a missing muffler or a fairly sizable hole or break somewhere between the motor and the silencer tube.
2. Taking time to visually inspect your exhaust system is often ignored, but can be vital in early detection of leaks. Most typical exhaust systems are designed to last around 4-6 years; however, exposure to snow, salt and other unruly road conditions, can drastically affect the lifespan. Look for excessive rust and corrosion or small cracks, which often develop around the joints or on the underbelly of the muffler itself. Also, while the vehicle is parked and running; check for any exhaust billowing from areas other than the rear of the vehicle. During this inspection, check to ensure the hangers and clamps are still holding steadfast. A missing hanger, can cause excessive flexing, leading quickly to a much more costly repair.
3.If you don't detect any of the more obvious signs of an exhaust leak, you may also encounter minor variances in performance. Higher RPM's provide more acceleration, which in turn indicates less restriction. This could mean there is a leak in the catalytic converter or closer to the manifold. Often, decrease in performance can also indicate a blockage or clog; either in the catalytic converter or other parts of the system. A pinch or crimped pipe can even cause your engine to stall.
4.) Lastly, if you find any water pooling, this can also mean an exhaust problem. Since for almost every average gallon of fuel burned a gallon of vaporized water is expelled, which unless air conditioner condensation is suspected it is likely to be some form of exhaust leak.
TIPS: if you ever detect a sweet bitter smell coming from your exhaust, this can mean a crack engine block or blown seals, which is caused by antifreeze seeping into the engine.
Another handy tip involves a little elbow grease, since you happen to be already poking around under your car. Stop off at your hardware store, and pick up a couple long pieces of very course sand paper. Pull a piece of the paper around the tubing, and in a back and forth motion, try to remove any excess or loose rust. Most rust will continue spreading, so shaving off a layer may add a few more years if kept up regularly.
DIY quick fix:
You could try a temporary fix like patching, cementing or using an exhaust repair kit. Ruptures or holes in the tube can be temporarily remedied, by applying a pop can patch. Simply cut away the top and bottom of a pop can, and make another cut from top to bottom. Roll the piece around the offending hole, and apply a simple pipe clamp to either side, such as a band or bolted U-clamp.
Honestly though, most exhaust problems should be handled as soon as possible. If you do suspect an exhaust leak; drive with all your windows cracked open to provide sufficient venting, and avoid using the vehicle's internal fan, which can sometimes draw fumes into the passenger compartment.
Warning:
Remember, exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, a lethal gas that is both colorless and odorless. This silent killer even in low doses can cause dizziness, nausea and has an equal affect to being under the influence of alcohol. All it takes is three minutes of exposure to a 1% concentration to actually kill a person. Recent studies by the EPA determined that as many as one out of every five vehicle related accidents have had elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the passenger compartment, which could be related to the initial cause of the accident.
Exhaust systems should be maintained and inspected regularly to ensure they are in good repair. It is our responsibility, for the sake of the environment, and ultimately to improve your own vehicle's life expectancy. Avoiding a problematic exhaust issue isn't just unfair to the people around you, it's also just as dangerous as playing a game of Russian roulette. Drive safe; drive smart and happy motoring!
