Exhaust donut not 100% flush (header to test pipe)...can this cause any damage? | FerrariChat
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Exhaust donut not 100% flush (header to test pipe)...can this cause any damage?

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by JF308, Mar 20, 2008.

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  1. JF308

    JF308 Formula 3

    Jan 17, 2007
    1,263
    Boulder, CO
    Full Name:
    John Feeney
    #1 JF308, Mar 20, 2008
    Probably a stupid question, but better safe than sorry.

    Replaced cats on Mondial t/348 with test pipes. Pipe length is perfect, but the angle where the pipe connects to the header is just ever so slightly off, and the donut doesn't quite flush up with the flange all the way around. I will probably have to get new/thicker exhaust donuts and see if this closes the slight gap on one side.

    There is the possibility of a slight leak, although I cant see/feel/hear anything leaking from the joint (header to test pipe). If there was a slight leak, could this do any damage to anything?

    Just checking. Thanks.

    John
     
  2. vincenzo

    vincenzo F1 Rookie

    Nov 2, 2003
    3,373
    #2 vincenzo, Mar 21, 2008
    Is the donut OEM?
    Who built the new pipes?
    Rgds,
    Vince
     
  3. Verell

    Verell F1 Veteran
    Consultant Owner

    May 5, 2001
    7,021
    Groton, MA
    Full Name:
    Verell Boaen
    #3 Verell, Mar 21, 2008
    If it's not leaking, it's probably OK, I've had gaskets that didn't look fully seated seal fine for years.

    However, I'd still try to get the test pipe replaced.

    If you have to live with it, keep a very close eye on it because any leak there is going to be hot enough so that:
    - It will erode the donut becoming larger
    - Once large enough, it can ignite anything flamable in line with it.
     
  4. JF308

    JF308 Formula 3

    Jan 17, 2007
    1,263
    Boulder, CO
    Full Name:
    John Feeney
    #4 JF308, Mar 21, 2008
    Its a set of Tubi test pipes for the 348/Mondial t... the issue is that I tried to re-use the donut. For now I am sure its OK, but I appreciate the input Verrell.

    I have some other items which need to be addressed when the car is up on a hoist, and will plan to swap these out at that time, and have Dave Helms confirm that I have not screwed anything up. Right now, I feel comfortable with the ability to drive the car and not light anything on fire !

    Thanks. J.
     
  5. SonomaRik

    SonomaRik F1 Veteran

    Dec 15, 2006
    6,904
    Folsom, CA (formerly Sonoma)
    #5 SonomaRik, Mar 21, 2008
    seems to me that with a good inspection and cleaning that if it shows no current signs of burn that it might be ok.

    but question for me is this part cannot be that expensive: why again are you not replacing it...expediance?
     
  6. JF308

    JF308 Formula 3

    Jan 17, 2007
    1,263
    Boulder, CO
    Full Name:
    John Feeney
    #6 JF308, Mar 21, 2008
    Yes, it was just a quick install. Existing donuts on the headers, and new for the pipe to muffler connection.

    I was just asking the question, because I wanted to drive it around before I could get to a shop and get two additional ones.

    Easy for me to replace, and I am certain that will fix it, and make it flush.

    J.
     
  7. Mr.Chairman

    Mr.Chairman F1 Rookie

    Mar 21, 2008
    2,987
    New Jersey
    Full Name:
    Robbie
    #7 Mr.Chairman, Mar 21, 2008
    Hi.. It should not cause any damage but if it leaks you will hear it. I just did the exhaust in my TR. I took a 2" piece of 2.5 inch pipe and stretched it to the diameter of the gasket (made 2 per test pipe). I slid the piece in the test pipe (both sides) with just a tad sticking out acting as a lip and seat for the gasket. Then I tack welded to secure. Then I was able to properly tighten.

    Hope this helps.

    Robbie
     

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