Fix an exhaust leak
How to fix an exhaust leak
I see all kinds of youtube videos showing how to fix an exhaust leak. Most of them are bogus; those repairs won’t last. Neither will muffler bandages or muffler wrap. Let’s take a look at what does and does not work. Don’t waste your time.
Exhaust leaks that can’t be patched
Don’t bother patching these exhaust leaks with sealers or bandages
You can apply patches to these exhaust components. But you’re kidding yourself if you think the patches will last. These exhaust leaks can only be fixed by replacing the components.
Use exhaust adapters to fix an exhaust leak on these leaks
Forget about hose clamps and tin cans to fix these leaks. Tin cans and hose clamps won’t last. Plus, why bother when you can buy these adapters for around $10 each?
Patch pipe leak with couplers
Fix an exhaust leaks at joints
Repair rusted exhaust joints with flange adapter replacement parts
Fix leaks at flex pipe with a new section
Locate a repair flex section and cut out the old leaking section
Exhaust clamps or welding?
Welding is usually the best bet. Don’t have a welder? Buy one.
Stick welder from Amazon for around $100
They’re not that expensive. In fact, you can buy a small stick welder and an exhaust adapter for less than half the cost of an entire pipe replacement at an exhaust shop. Welding exhaust pipe is easy and it doesn’t require a large welder. Practice on scrap material before you work on your car though.
You can buy a cheap 110-volt stick welder from Amazon for around $100 or buy a used higher quality unit from Craigslist.
©, 2019 Rick Muscoplat
Posted on by Rick Muscoplat