So, I had my exhaust worked on a few weeks ago and ever since the engine kind of sounds like a tractor while driving ( not that loud but noticible). I suspect the exhaust manifolds are either leaking near the heads or the y pipe. The bolts near the y-pipe have been replaced when the exhuast work was done and there is some space between the y-pipe flange and the manifold flanges. Is that normal? Also, what is the easist way to test for leaking exhaust manifolds on the head. i heard about putting soap and seeing if it bubbles but will that work with the big fan on these 318 engines blowing?

 

Any liquid will boil off in short order on exhaust manifolds...... they tend to get a tad warm.

Best bet is start the engine, and nose around under the hood. If there is a leak at the manifold, you will actually be able to FEEL it a few inches away. (you don't have to touch it, as that would just NOT be a good idea....)

The y-pipe should snug right up to the flange on the manifold.

If someone else worked on it, and you paid them to do so, take it back. Have them fix their mistakes.

 

okay so I snapped a picture of one of the exhaust manifolds ( where it bolts to the y-pipe) there is a bid gap and the other side has an even bigger one. took it back to mufflex and they said that was the way it was when they got it and it is normal. I included the picture here:

http://s1252.photobucket.com/albums/...t=3ba0fdd9.jpg


also, if that gap should not be there can someone please upload a pic so I can sow the tech that did the work and show him that it needs to be closed. thanks.

 

That collector looks right.

 

Yep, that is just a flange on the pipe. It is a friction fit..... (when they make those, the slide the flange on, then flare the end of the pipe.) Completely normal. So long as the pipe itself seals against the manifold, it's all good.