Corroded metal is unsuitable for welding. Therefore, the service life of a rusted exhaust system after repair is not long. Sealed or welded areas usually hold up well, but the metal often breaks near the patch. In systems with several mufflers, after replacing the first, the second often fails. Therefore, at the service, the exhaust system, as a rule, is replaced entirely. But this is not always really necessary. Therefore, carefully evaluate the condition of the parts of the system and decide for yourself whether it is worth changing the entire system or you can get by with replacing individual elements. General recommendations for repairing the exhaust system are as follows:
- during work, the suspended vehicle must be fixed absolutely securely, since great efforts must be made when unscrewing;
- if during disassembly some connection does not turn away, sometimes it has to be torn off by tightening. When assembling, it is better to use new bolts and nuts;
- rubber suspension for reliability is also better to replace;
- if one of the elements of the system has already been replaced before, it is easier to disconnect the pipe connections in a heated state. At the service, a burner is used for this. You can use a blowtorch, but when working, you must keep a fire extinguisher at the ready. As a last resort, a rust modifier can be used;
- it is necessary to disconnect the pipes with strong rotational movements or with a hammer;
- if this does not help, saw off the pipe of the faulty muffler with a hacksaw about 10 cm from the junction. Saw the rest of the pipe in the longitudinal direction and wring it out with a powerful screwdriver;
- for easier loosening of threaded connections, subsequently apply copper grease to the thread during assembly. This also applies to pipe joints.