Exhaust System: Service and Repair

1. Inspect the following for cracked joints, broken welds and corrosion damage:
^ Inspect the exhaust pipes.
^ Inspect the seals.
^ Inspect the catalytic converter.
^ Inspect the muffler.
2. Inspect the following for stripped or corroded bolt threads:
^ Inspect the clamps.
^ Inspect the brackets.
^ Inspect the insulators.
3. Inspect the exhaust system, including the heat shields, to ensure that they are free from leaks, binding, grounding and excessive vibration. The following conditions commonly cause these problems:
^ Loose flange bolts.
^ Loose seals.
^ Loose heat shields.
^ Loose brackets.
^ Loose pipes.
4. If these problems exist, inspect the exhaust system components and alignment.
5. Align the system and replace damaged components, as necessary.