Exhaust leak?

[Jman1759]

I recently installed the nameless EL headers with my Op/fp combo. This is my first catless header. It's a little tinny from 1500 to 3500 rpms and I think there may be an exhaust leak. I definitely can't see one and have spent 3 or 4 times laying under the car with it running. Is there a way to test it? I see 2 or 3 threads talking about a "smoke test"? I also have an OFT heading my way...

[Bobblehead]

I don't know if this will help you much or not, but if you can have a friend, significant other, small child with basic motor function, etc... you can put a rag or work glove over the tailpipe (essentially blocking the exhaust gas's only way out) and see if you can hear the leak. Have a look at this video:
[ame="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYVjkyLdID4"]How to Find Exhaust Leaks - EricTheCarGuy - YouTube[/ame]

Also, I THINK, don't know for sure, that aftermarket headers have a different sound to them due to them being made of tubing and not cast iron.

[ray7792]

Do you feel that your accel pedal isn't as responsive? If you do have a leak its probably at the gasket somewhere, if its really small it'll be difficult to locate. When the OFT does come, log for fuel trims and if the Long-term Fuel Trims is really off like > +-6%, probably means yeah... good luck!

[Jman1759]

No, I don't feel any reduced responsiveness, good info on the OFT, thanks.

[yomny]

Headers sound raspy at times, make sure you're not confusing the two. Also for really cheap you could purchase a car's stethoscope that allows you tap and listen to any place you may think you have a leak. The stethoscope magnifies the leak sound making it sound like it hurricane in your ears.

Costs $19 really handy when dealing with exhaust components.