The exhaust system ensures their removal into the atmosphere, reducing the concentration of pollutants, reducing engine noise to the required level with minimal engine power loss. In order for the exhaust system to perform its functions, it must be in good condition. The condition of the exhaust system also affects engine power and fuel consumption.
The exhaust system consists of an exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe, catalytic converter and mufflers.
Exhaust pipes provide connections between the elements of the exhaust system.
Silencers are designed to smooth out pulsations in the exhaust gas flow and reduce noise levels. Silencers work based on two physical effects - resonance and sound absorption. Silencers usually use a combination of these effects.
Resonant silencers consist of chambers of various lengths connected by pipes. The difference in the cross-sectional areas of the pipes and chambers, the change in the direction of the exhaust gas flow and the presence of resonators together with the connecting pipes and chambers ensures optimum noise reduction, especially at low frequencies.
The exhaust system is attached to the bottom of the car using elastic elements to reduce vibration from the passage of exhaust gases.
On a cold engine, check the condition of the exhaust system along its entire length.
Check pipes and their connections for leaks, signs of corrosion and damage. If exhaust system components are corroded, disconnect them from the exhaust system and replace with new ones. If it is difficult to separate the pipes of the exhaust system, use an oxy-fuel welding machine to heat up the junction of the pipes and separate them.
Check that all brackets and suspension elements of the exhaust system are in good condition and evenly tensioned.
When moving the exhaust system of the car to the sides, check that it does not touch the car body. If not, replace the exhaust rubber mounts.
When repairing the exhaust system, be sure to fulfill the following conditions:
- when removing components of the exhaust system, start work from the rear;
- to facilitate the loosening of nuts and bolts connecting the components of the exhaust system, pre-soak them with a liquid that weakens the connections;
- when installing it is necessary to use new gaskets, rubber suspensions and clamps for fastening the exhaust system;
- before re-assembling the system elements, clean the places of their connection with sandpaper from the remnants of sealant and rust;
- to facilitate subsequent loosening, lubricate the nuts and bolts securing the exhaust system with high-temperature paste.
After working on the exhaust system, check that the system is installed freely, without tension and that there is sufficient clearance from the bodywork.