Tips for sealing exhaust leak

[calico]

Hi, i have an exhaust leak after install of new downpipe. It seems to be leaking from where the pipe connects to the catback. The bolts are tight as possible, which leads to the gasket? Any tips on getting rid of this type of exhaust leak? high temp rtv all around maybe????

 

[Dream On]

High temp copper RTV. It's what I've got holding my turbo and manifold together, so it can definately take the heat.

 

[calico]

thanks...i tried some of this and so far so good...thanks...

 

[DSMunknown]

High temp copper RTV. It's what I've got holding my turbo and manifold together, so it can definately take the heat.

They've got RTV for everything!



EDIT: Do you know if this would be a good electrical conductor? I am assuming that copper is copper, isn't it? I'm thinking of this in terms of a custom grounding kit I'm putting together, and using this as soldering element.

 

[Defiant]

Uh... no. What little copper's in it is fully-encapsulated by the carrier.

 

[Dream On]

There may be some copper in it, but I assumed they named the RTV's by color...

 

[DSMunknown]

There may be some copper in it, but I assumed they named the RTV's by color...

Yeah, nevermind. I found this at my local NAPA store yesterday for about $2:

You must be logged in to view this image or video.

A link to the product (NAPA item number BK 7701900):

http://www.napaonline.com/masterpag...Code=BK&PartNumber=7701900&Description=Solder



I am told that this will work fine with connecting lug terminals to 4 gauge copper wiring when using a propane torch.

 

[VanIsleDSM]

copper RTV is only good for 700F intermittent temperatures, don't EGTs exceed that at idle? and up at least around 1400F when on it... I mean, the RTV might not be that hot itself, but I'm sure it's still well over 700F... I haven't installed my EGT yet, waiting for the damn pillar.. I suppose it will still work, but probably breakdown after not too long..

 

[DSMunknown]

copper RTV is only good for 700F intermittent temperatures, don't EGTs exceed that at idle? and up at least around 1400F when on it... I mean, the RTV might not be that hot itself, but I'm sure it's still well over 700F... I haven't installed my EGT yet, waiting for the damn pillar.. I suppose it will still work, but probably breakdown after not too long..

Depending on where your EGT probe is located, and depending on how long the car has been idling for, idle temps should be around 900-1000*F. According to the Permatex website, you are correct in saying that the Copper RTV Silicone product they sell is resistant up to 700*F.


Here is a quote from the link below:


http://www.permatex.com/products/au...mum_Temperature_RTV_Silicone_Gasket_Maker.htm

Permatex® Ultra Copper® Maximum Temperature RTV Silicone Gasket Maker

OEM specified. Highest operating temperatures for 4-cylinder, turbocharged or high-performance engines. The most advanced, high temp RTV silicone gasket available. Sensor-safe, low odor, noncorrosive. Superior adhesion. Three times more oil resistant than conventional silicones; eight times more flexible than cut gaskets. Temperature range -75°F to 700°F (-59°C to 371°C) intermittent; resists auto and shop fluids and vibration.

Suggested Applications: Exhaust manifolds/ headers, valve covers, oil pans, timing covers, water pumps, thermostat housings

I suppose you would be fine using that particular RTV silicone between the downpipe and O2 sensor housing. Besides, the only thing you would really have to worry about is the catalytic converter, and some of us don't even have that on anymore. I doubt it would damage the cat anyways.

 

[SnowBird]

I have used either the red or orange RTV sealant, and some people will say it wont hold but whatever, I used it on a whole turbo back system on a 2004 WRX without gaskets. Yes, I used the RTV instead of gaskets because they didnt send me any, and that was 2 years ago. It is still sealed.

 

[Dream On]

I also wanted to add that the copper rtv between my turbo and manifold has been on there for about 6 months now, and my ported 14b spools up to 14psi just under 3k rpm, with a stock exhaust. I don't think it's leaking.

 

[eclipsegsx1736]

copper RTV is only good for 700F intermittent temperatures, don't EGTs exceed that at idle? and up at least around 1400F when on it... I mean, the RTV might not be that hot itself, but I'm sure it's still well over 700F... I haven't installed my EGT yet, waiting for the damn pillar.. I suppose it will still work, but probably breakdown after not too long..

The exhaust gasses will get that hot, but the actual metal that the copper is on probably won't. I've had copper RTV on my WG flanges for about a month and it's still holding up.