[randytfd]

I have a 2000 Safari 4.3 V6 RWD with an exhaust leak where the crossover pipe and exhaust manifold meets.As I undertsand it this model year doesn't have the donut gaskets but a metal to metal flange set up...is it possible to repair an exhuast leak here without having to replace the whole pipe which has the cat in it?
Thanks for any help!
Randy

 

[astro355]

What kind of leak are we talking about? Is there damage to the pipe like a crack or hole? Is not sealing right?

 

[randytfd]

I haven't removed the pipe yet... I will need a mechanic to make this repair for me.I'm unsure as to what i'm up against at this point as far as to the exact cause of the leak.If the pipe is cracked can they be welded or are they too thin?...or is there some kind of aftermarket flange kit that could be welded to the pipe if the crack is too big or the flange is too damaged? I believe that this exhaust has studs not bolts that may possibly need replacing as well.What can I expect a garage to charge me roughly to correct this?
Thanks,
Randy

 

[astro355]

The pipe can be welded, but that is not a likely cause. I was wondering if you knew what was the cause. Sure, it could be loose studs or even broken studs. I don't know what the book is for this type of work off hand. I'm sure it will be a couple hundred dollars at least.

 

[randytfd]

If you think that the pipe probably isn't at fault what other causes could there be?.I doubt that the exhaust manifold has a crack and I'm not sure about the shape the studs are in.Has anybody else had this problem or something similiar? Im hoping that GM put manifold gaskets on these rigs i know they dont believe in valve cover gaskets anymore they just figure silicone works for everything LOL! What ever would make them shift from a donut gasket setup to metal to metal is beyond me... "if aint broke dont mess with it" I sometimes think this stuff is puposely engineered to have a very limited lifespan so that you have to come back to the dealership everytime something screws up!

 

[astro355]

If you think that the pipe probably isn't at fault what other causes could there be?.I doubt that the exhaust manifold has a crack and I'm not sure about the shape the studs are in.Has anybody else had this problem or something similiar? Im hoping that GM put manifold gaskets on these rigs i know they dont believe in valve cover gaskets anymore they just figure silicone works for everything LOL! What ever would make them shift from a donut gasket setup to metal to metal is beyond me... "if aint broke dont mess with it" I sometimes think this stuff is puposely engineered to have a very limited lifespan so that you have to come back to the dealership everytime something screws up!

I honestly can't tell you what's at fault, I would need to examine your van. I can only tell you possibilities and probabilities. The possibilities are:

-leaking gasket(s)
-broken or missing studs or nuts
-crack in exhaust manifold
-damage to pipe
-leaking at 02 sensor or 02 sensor bung

And I'm sure there are more. But exhaust manifolds do crack, that happens alot. Metal to metal does seal well for exhaust systems, as long as the surfaces stay true and straight. But in the end, to figure out what kind of problem you have, you'll have to look. Look at the exhaust and when you see a black fine powder, that's an exhaust leak.