The exhaust system on your Ford F150 consists of the exhaust manifold, exhaust pipe, catalytic converter, muffler and tail pipe. With the exception of the tailpipe, all of these components are sealed together with gaskets. A leak in any of the gaskets will allow exhaust gases to escape from the system. Because the exhaust gases are no longer completely travelling through the muffler, they are no longer quieted or “muffled.” This results in a louder exhaust note.
Things You’ll Need
- Socket set
- Gasket scraper
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Raise the hood of your F150 and start the engine. Locate the source of the exhaust leak by listening along the exhaust system. Do not use your hands to feel for the leak, as this will burn you.
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Turn the vehicle off and allow the engine and exhaust to cool before working on it.
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Return to the area of the exhaust leak. The most common area for an exhaust leak is where the exhaust manifold meets the exhaust pipe. If this is where the leak is, remove the bolts from the pipe mounting flange, by turning them counterclockwise with the socket. Install the new gasket, which is referred to as a “doughnut” because of its shape, and tighten the flange bolts by turning them clockwise.
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Inspect the area where the exhaust manifold bolts onto the engine. If the leak is here, try to tighten the manifold bolts by turning them clockwise with the socket. This will often seal the leak. If this does not work, remove the manifold bolts by turning them counterclockwise with the socket. Pull the exhaust manifold from the engine and remove the mounting gasket. Use the gasket scraper to remove any gasket residue. Put the new gasket into place and tighten the manifold bolts, by turning them clockwise with the socket.
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Inspect the catalytic converter flange and the muffler attachment for leaks. If any are found, remove the mounting bolts by turning them counterclockwise with the socket. Install the new gasket and tighten the mounting bolts by turning them clockwise with the socket.
Tips & Warnings
- Be certain that the exhaust leak is not from a hole in the muffler or catalytic converter. A hole here will require replacement of the unit.
- Never work on the vehicle while the exhaust is still hot.You could get burned.
- If working under the vehicle, be certain that it is secured from moving or rolling.