possible exhaust leak?

Question

I think I might have a leak in my exhaust. When It was replaced the new muffler was just clamped on to the pipes shouldnt it be welded on? The clamps dont do too well of a job because there are spaces around the pipe and muffler the pipe seems a little too skinny to fit into the muffler and stay snug. would I be able to use that metal tape that they use to fit ducts togeher it has a temp. rating of 200 degrees F. is that safe to use on an exhaust pipe to seal the space I used the tape to kinda fix some rust spots and the adhesive on the tape is ridiculously strong. If anyone could help I would appreciate it

also if there is an exhaust leak couldnt that cause the car to not have as much pep?

Answer 1

Well, clamps will do job if tight. They will actually indent and seal. But if not, they sell a sealer. Comes in a tube and works very well. Alot of muffler shops use it on welds.

Answer 2

Clamps are commom practice when replacing exhaust parts providing you have the proper fit. Welding is prefered by some but if you need to ever replace something it has to be cut off. try tightening the clamp again, if that doesnt work and you can get the pipes to come apart you can put a sealer on the joints. I dont recomend using the tape it is only for temporary fixes. A leak in the exhaust should not cause you to loose any performance .

Answer 3

An exhaust leak CAN decrease engine performance. Among other things, it'll throw off the engine's EGR system through lowering the pressure. I'd look for black soot trails around the clamps where the muffler's attached. Ya should be able to notice louder sounds when your driving if there's a significant leak. "muffler" being it's name AND function.
It's not uncommon to use clamps instead of welding. It's cheaper and quicker if one's able to do it. Some systems are set up so that pre-fitted replacements aren't available. That's where you'll find most of the welded on exhaust fixes. I'd be careful about the tape, but 200deg rating should be more than enough. Just keep an eye on it, and if ya notice any blackening, or "crisping" take it off.

Answer 4

do not use the tape it wont work and the sealer will not pass inspection after you run the car for a while and the exhaust is hot retighten your clamps you do not want to weld the muffler because it will cost more if you need to replace it againit will only cause a power loss if it is a major leake a small leake will not cause it to lose power if you retighten the clamps after it gets hot you should take care of it

Answer 5

If you had a leak it would be heard, If you are just curious if the clamps are not doing a good job, well if they tighten them good it won't leak. They have work for many many years and many many cars and trucks. A weld is good too. But if you don't hear the exhaust then it most likey isn't leaking. If you do hear it then I would tighten the clamps more and if that doesn't do it then I would go and get it welded.