Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Exhaust Problems in a Subaru Outback
Subaru vehicles have a long history of exhaust problems, and the Outback is no exception. The original exhaust system will last the longest; it is constructed of stainless steel. Aluminized exhaust systems are a common and more affordable replacement option and depending on your geographical region, can last as little as two years. Road salt and other road contaminants can lead to premature wear and tear on aftermarket exhaust systems.
Heat Shields
Raise the Outback on a lift, ramps or jack stands so you can inspect the exhaust system thoroughly. One of the most annoying aspects of all Subaru vehicles is that all the exhaust components are wrapped with insulated heat shields. While the heat shields offer a protection against grass fires in arid regions, it is likely that the shields will become corroded and loosen. Loose heat shields will vibrate during engine acceleration or idling. Use radiator clamps to tighten and re-secure the heat shields to the exhaust pipes they surround. This can be a challenging task depending on the location of the loose heat shield. Subaru Outback exhaust systems employ several components with awkward bends and angles. This may challenge the task of integrating the radiator clamp position in order to tighten the shield and silence the rattle. In the best case scenario, youll be able to effectively apply the radiator clamp around the heat shield and fasten it to the exhaust pipe, but the repair, at best, is a temporary solution to a permanent problem.
Cutting off the heat shields is a more permanent solution, but it is not recommended. It can be illegal in states that endure high forest-fire risks. Other states may mandate the heat shields on vehicles in order to pass the vehicle state inspections.
Flange Connections
Other than the heat shields, the next-weakest links in the Subaru exhaust system components are the flange connections. Inspect the flange connections thoroughly to ensure the gasket between the seamed flanges is not leaking and the flanges are not deteriorated. Its not uncommon if the flange connections between the converters and exhaust pipes thin and weaken from age and normal wear and tear. Once the flanges weaken, they can create an exhaust leak, either because the heat of the exhaust will burn the gasket out or the connection itself becomes too compromised.
You have two options when the flange connections are compromised. Replace the components with the weak flanges and put a new gasket in between, or cut the flange connections off on both components and "buddy sleeve" and clamp the connection. The latter is a more inexpensive alternative if even applicable, but its a short term solution.
Catalytic Converters
Test the back-flow of the exhaust system by plugging the tailpipe of the Outback. Wear a thick safety glove to protect your hands from exhaust heat. Fully clogged converters will compromise the engine operation, since exhaust systems need to disperse fumes from the exhaust. Partially clogged converters can result from a misfired cylinder or cylinders, a compromised oxygen sensor or the lack of maintaining the vehicle. The Outback employs at least three catalytic converters, depending on the year and model series. Regular tune-ups will assist in the longevity of the converters as well as replacing the oxygen sensors at regular scheduled maintenance intervals.
Aftermarket Aluminzed Exhaust Systems
Aluminized systems will not endure as long as original systems. While stainless steel exhaust systems are available as replacement exhaust components, many people find the price of the systems to be too steep. Inspect your aluminized aftermarket systems annually to determine efficiency and durability. Aluminized systems will have weaker piping connections to the converter or system and deteriorate much quicker than stainless steel systems. Be sure to inspect the flange connections of the systems and the piping extensions.
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