I've searched the forums for a while and didn't see anything on here in particular reguarding my question. How does one test for exhaust leaks? I just got done putting on a cat-back exhaust and i think the only part i am most worried about is the part that meets up at the cat, since there is that heat shield you have to cut. what i did is i cut it every half inch or so in slits, bent them back so it looks kind of like a cog gear, put the exhaust in w/new gasket, and bent them back over. it doesn't SOUND like i have a leak, but then again this is my first catback i've installed ever.

 

You know, I don't really know how to do it either but if I had to guess, I'd probably do it the same way you'd check for a puncture on a tire: Soapy water. Put some in a spray bottle and then spray it at the cat - mid pipe connection and look for bubbles.

That's my guess unless someone has a better idea.

 

thats a good idea but would it just bubble from heat alone or no?

 

Not if the car had been sitting for a while and you started it up.

 

if you had a leak from the cat, you'd hear and smell it but the above method couldn't hurt if you're really worried about it.

 

Look for the carbon soot. You might see it on pipes or on body/chassis parts near the exhaust.

 

There's an app for that!



Sorry...had to.


Just smell and feel around. It's also ok to have someone block the exhaust pipes for a few moments at atime while you check certain sections.

 

LMAO.

 

Best way to check for an exhaust leak is with a stethascope type tool. A lot of shops use it, it just has a different tip on the end. You can go to any exhaust shop or muffler place and they would do it for free.

 

The most common method is simple... start your car then put your hand around the area that you think is leaking. If you feel air than clearly you have a exhaust leak. Also sometimes the car will backfire under decel with a exhaust leak.