Flex in the Exhaust System

**mr_federalist** · 06-24-2008, 06:20 PM

While checking around under the front end trying to see where a 'tapping' noise was coming from I pushed on the exhaust pipe under the manifold and was suprised to see there was quite a bit of play in it.

I've seen from searching about loose connections at the mainfold causing a ticking sound and the correct torque to tighten.

But is there supposed to be any flex at all?

yellj · 06-24-2008, 06:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mr_federalist

While checking around under the front end trying to see where a 'tapping' noise was coming from I pushed on the exhaust pipe under the manifold and was suprised to see there was quite a bit of play in it.

I've seen from searching about loose connections at the mainfold causing a ticking sound and the correct torque to tighten.

But is there supposed to be any flex at all?

Did you tighten it, I need a 2' extension to get to mine that loosen up every 4- months.

**mcneil** · 06-24-2008, 06:48 PM

I'd check back through the whole exhaust system for loose or broken hangers first.

**mr_federalist** · 06-24-2008, 06:51 PM

Thanks for the replies, but what I'd like to know first is if there should be any flex at all?

yellj · 06-24-2008, 08:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mr_federalist

Thanks for the replies, but what I'd like to know first is if there should be any flex at all?

There is going to be some flex the further you get from the manifold, should be none there, if you look the hangers are in rubber bushings, allowing flex, needs some movement, as do most all exhaust systems.

**mr_federalist** · 06-25-2008, 04:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by yellj

There is going to be some flex the further you get from the manifold, should be none there, if you look the hangers are in rubber bushings, allowing flex, needs some movement, as do most all exhaust systems.

If I push up on the exhaust where it routes around the oil pan from the drivers side to the passengers side, then back to the rear end it has to move up a good two inches.

Pillswoj · 06-25-2008, 07:07 AM

Check the flange between the manifold and downpipe. Two bolts hold them together and they do tend to loosen. If this joint is loose it will give the same tapping noise as a cracked manifold. If it has been loose for a while you may have burnt out the gasket in the joint and will need to replace it.

Jeff