From the sounds of it, I have an exhaust leak right where the y-pipe bolts to the manifold on the passrnger side. Anidea how to fix this? I tried seeing if I could tighten the bolts up, but tehre is no way to get up there (i tried from under the car). Any tips?

 

I found out yesterday that the exhaust leak is comming from the piece between where the y-pipe and the manifold meet. I can spin that peace by hand. Any way to stop it? I know tightening the bolts would help, if only they weren't rusted away. I can't risk breaking them because it would be WAY too loud.

 

Alright here's an update...I snapped oe of the bolts holding the y-pipe to the passenger side manifold. I have no idea how to fix it. The leak is so loud now, but I have no choice but to drive it. Any ideas? Any tips? I know it's a stud. I tried forcing it out, but I don't think thats possible.

 

Some parts stores sell a clamp that hinges like handcuffs, depending on the space you have to work with. I have also made a C clamp with a bolt to tighten as a temp fix for my Jimmy as I had to drive it until I could repair it. It really needs to be drilled out and replace the studs which is usually only practical with the header off the engine. Or go to an exhaust shop, they should be able to do it on the car, whenever working with rusty bolts, WD40 and a propane torch are your friends- heat the nut , spray on some wd-it will smoke like crazy, try to turn , don't force it and repeat it as neccesary, Good luck, been there done that and probaly will again and if you do replace the studs get stainless steel ones and it won't happen again-Mike

 

I had done the same thing replacing my y-pipe about 3 days ago and really only way is to replace it. I tried to use a make shift patch job and it sort of held up. It isn't nearly as loud and the smell has finally gone away (quick steel reaks when heated). You should be able to drill from the top down as I saw there is enough room to do so. I am going to attempt later and let you know how it goes!

 

I had my exhausted done and everything was fixed! Magnaflow muffler installed too.