When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
A weld in the exhaust on my 2000 has let go. On the drivers side, just in front of the rear axle, the long pipe has separated from the flange. Trying to ascertain my options for repair. The exhaust is some sort of aftermarket, but the PO did not have a name, nor have I ever found a logo or anything on it. The pipe after the cats is an H pipe, not an X pipe. Not sure if that is original or aftermarket.
Is this weldable?
Can just the pipes between the cats and the exhaust at the axle be replaced?
Do I need an entire new exhaust?
One local place was advising towards full replacement, due to age and the thought that SS will let go after 8-10 years. No idea how long the exhaust has been on car, I've owned it for 8 years, and FWIW, it is only at 48k. I have no issue with the sound or the performance of existing exhaust, so I don't need/want something new for those reasons. I don't have pictures of the tips, which are 4 rounded rectangles.
If it's an H pipe it's almost assuredly stock = aluminized steel. Any decent exhaust shop can fix this (fairly common) problem.
P.S. I would check your cats for major discoloration tho. And there are a lot of used mid sections out there, another option.
From: In a parallel universe. Currently own 2014 Stingray Coupe.
C7 of the Year - Modified Finalist 2021
MO Events Coordinator
St. Jude Co-Organizer
St. Jude Donor '03 thru '26
NCM Sinkhole Donor
CI 5, 8 & 11 Veteran
I would think that the pieces can be welded back together and your problem would be taken care of. Check with a good muffler shop and see what they say.
From: Central PA. - - My AR15 identifies as a muzzleloader
I believe in the Beer Fairy
It was welded once so it most certainly can be welded again. It'll need a lot of cleaning up first or you'll be back in the same boat.
if I was doing it I would probably clean it up as much as possible in the car, tack it in the car and then remove the thing and complete the weld. But that's just me.
Thanks, I had replied yesterday, but somehow it did not save.
Went to another shop last night, and they seemed to think it would be easy enough to weld. Though he was also very surprised when I told him it was not SS. Anyway, we'll find a day next week, weather permitting, and I'll get it over to him.
Got car back last Thurs, mechanic was able to easily weld the broken pipe, and found the other one was partially letting go and fixed that one as well. Everything worked out as hoped, bill was ~$100 so super happy.
The funny part is that he called me **** at least 3 times, due to how clean the car is underneath! I'm taking this as a compliment.
Broken Exhaust Weld
