Exhaust problems

[whincup]

i have had problems with the exhaust since i bought my '94 sierra, 1.3L a year ago. its always smelt strong of fumes in the car, but i never payed attention. but today when im turning right corners, it starts sounding like theres a hole in it somewhere. its fine turning left or going straight, but turning right is really loud, and the more im accelerating the louder it is...

can anyone tell me how hard it is to replace the exhaust system? is it possible for someone with basic knowledge to do?...

[ack]

I don't know what to tell you about the difference in sound while turning...

But I know a few quirks about the Samurai/Sierra Exhaust system.

First, get under the truck -while everything is cool - and carefully inspect the entire exhaust system from the tailpipe forwards to the end of the exhaust manifold for rust or holes. If there are holes in the pipe or the muffler, consider replacing the entire system rather than trying to fix what you have. More on this in a moment... You can replacejust broken parts if you are short on cash. These fixes are best done by a muffler shop - they have the right tools.

Remove the heatshield on the exhaust manifold and carefully inspect the cast-iron manifold for cracks. They usually show up in the "V" areas where individual exhaust passages join together. If cracks exist (and they are fairly common), then the exhaust manifold needs replacing.

If you HAVE around $500 US, I heartily suggest that you replace the entire exhaust system with one artfully created at your local muffler shop.

Specifications:
Exhaust system (roughly $300 installed)
- 2" pipe
- Suitable inexpensive Catalytic converter
- A Nothing-Fancy muffler
- Bend the tailpipe so that it exits out the side of the truck behind the driver's rear wheel. This will better keep the exhaust from 'sneaking' back into the passenger compartment with the rear flap open.

Thorley exhaust manifold ($150-$185)
- OEM manifolds are hard to find used and pricey when new.
- The Thorley header does a better job and will not crack like the iron OEM unit will.

Benefits:
Better engine power/performance.
Custom installation keeps exhaust out of truck cabin.
Lasts another 10-15 years

Disadvantages:
Costs money.

If you do decide to replace everything, you can save a little money in the installation if you cut the exhaust pipe right at the end of the OEM header, install the Thorley header, tie up the front of the exhaust with wire then drive to the muffler shop to replace the rest of the exhaust system. That way, you won't get charged for installing the Thorley and you will have gotten your hands dirty fixing your Sierra! Leaving the exhaust system in place and disconnected gives the muffler shop something to work with when creating a new exhaust system.


If you have the people skills and are willing to work hard, you can use your Samurai to deliver pizza (or Chinese, subs...) part time and easily make enough money for a new exhaust system in a month or two with tips alone! I just bought a plasma cutter/arc welder this way and have nearly enough money to buy an LCD HD TV with another couple of week's driving.

I hope that this helps!

[whincup]

thanks, thats given me a lot to go on and think about
i called a local exhaust dealer, apparently they do free inspections, and they make their own custom sports systems for sierras/samurais for $350 AUD, not sure if thats fitted or not... thats half of what i expected so quite happy.

thanks for the reply!