I know the water comes from the cats, that's not the issue. The issue here is when I start the truck I get water leaking from the two band clamps. Not so much on the first one coming from the driver's side downpipe, but the second one just past the Y leaks pretty good. The factory clamps are rotted pretty good. Since water is leaking there I'm guessing exhaust is as well, but I don't see any black soot around the clamp and running a finger around it just knocks off a bunch of rust. Should I bother trying to seal it or just wait for it to rot completely?

 

Sounds like it's time for a full custom made exhaust.

 

no

your exhaust loosens up when it's cold. the pipes contract and over the years that band clamp isn't doing much good when cold.


when hot, the piping expands and now the band clamp is sealing things.


drive the truck and do your normal routine. but ASAP after getting home, crawl under there and tighten things up. you have to do the same thing with headers. keep tightening them when hot, and finally you'll get a decent seal.


since you are only seeing water, and not soot...that is an indication of what I'm talking about

 

Nah don't listen to him, you know you want a completely custom made true dual exhaust!

 

Couldn't agree more

 

I've got a Magnaflow on there now, it was cut in and welded. I wouldn't be heartbroken if I had to change it out, just wallet broken. It sounds ok, but isn't really deep enough and it drones like mad between 1800-2200.

Punisher, I was just listening to yours and it sounds pretty good. Are those 18"? I think I went with a 24.

As far as tightening the clamps...not sure, I'll have to check and see if I can even get a wrench on there with all the rust.

 

Check the widget arm, it may be stuck open.

 

quick thread hijack...

how are those MGP's working out for you?

quick thread unhijack...

 

I tried but all I have are left handed wrenches.

 

Mine are 14x4 inch round Maggies, AKA Magnapacks.