my van started driving loudly, like it has no muffler, how or why?
Asked by Mrs_H Apr 10, 2012 at 09:52 PM about the 1995 Chevrolet Astro Extended RWD
Question type: General
It started acouple weeks ago. There's no hole in the muffler or exhaust system, yet we are stumped by how or why.
My van is a Safari SLX, has approx. 290,000 kms; FWD; 2 full doors on trunk; extended; roomy; 7 seater; no rust or
peeling paint issues. One other Q: if I were to resell, what could I ask for base?
11 Answers
joyfulnoise answered 12 years ago
If the noise is on the engine , it could possibly be a blown exhaust manifold gasket .
aztec626bf answered 12 years ago
Yes exhaust manifold gasket or exhaust manifold donut seal. Also did you check if the catalytic converter has a hole?
Thanks for your help! BTW, are either ones costly? would you know? If my hubby can't do it
aztec626bf answered 12 years ago
The exhaust manifold gasket is fairly inexpensive approximately $25. If the bolts are very rusted it can be a little difficult to change. The exhaust donut is about the same in price and usually not that bad to change. As for the catalytic converter they are more money roughly $250 maybe a little more. That is also not that bad of a job to change. All three of these are not that bad, but depending on the amount of rust/corrosion can be somewhat difficult. If your husband has the right tools and a decent place to perform the jobs that makes it much easier.
Thank you for generous help! I started the van this morning, & the noise is coming from mid centre to the back...which is where its the worst.
aztec626bf answered 12 years ago
Sounds like It's coming from catalytic converter or the pipes just after or before it. If your "cat" is ok this won't be to bad or expensive.
The best way to figure out where it is leaking if there is no visible hole is to start the van, climb under it (you may or may not want to jack it up slightly first, depends on your ground clearance), and carefully (without touching the pipes) feel around the pipes for any sort of air leak (pay close attention to the joints and anyplace that looks rusty).
As for your second question, I suggest going to www.kellybluebook.com to find out what your van is worth.
Your answers can be found very quickly at an exhaust shop. they check these things in a few minutes and write an estimate, they could replace a gasket or a pipe in a few minutes and show you as well as fix it at the same time while the vehicle is safely lifted. It takes heat or impact tools to deal wisely with rusted or corroded fasteners. They usually replace anything that can recur with noise or issues. If your hubby wants to watch and take it home, it can be a free estimate.
can you drive with a broken manifold bolt on a 2002 chevrolet astro van
can you drive with a broken manifold bolt
