By T.K. Malhotra (President)
My muffler is wearing out. It's wearing out even as my car sits in the drive-way or on the street. During the last drive, the acids that buildup from combustion are now collecting inside the muffler which sets the process to corrode its metal shell.
That's how mufflers often go bad-from acid on the inside and not rust on the outside. Therefore, when my muffler goes bad, I and everyone in my block know. It sounds as if I am driving home a tank.
The scene created by the noise is more than embarrassing. It means my exhaust system is in problem.
There are several vital functions that are performed by the exhaust system. It carries exhaust gases safely away from the engine, cleans the fumes before releasing them into the air, helps the engine perform at peak level and above all, reduces noise pollution. The exhaust system includes the muffler, catalytic convertor (now being fitted to the new cars in our country), muffler pipes gaskets and exhaust clamps. When they fail, it makes the car weak, loud and dirty.
The biggest hazard is carbon monoxide infringement in the passenger area. The exhaust system breaks down for a variety of reasons, aside from the buildup of acid: the quality of the metal (stainless steel is best), the weather conditions (road chemicals accelerate corrosion), driving habits (short trips create more acid buildup), and improper suspension support, which wears out bushings.
The best way to know if an exhaust system is in order is to have a qualified automobile engineer to inspect it during routine check-ups. Don't wait until your car wakes up the neighbourhood; by then the problem may be critical.
What are the warning signs ?
(a) Age : The exhaust system lasts 24 to 40 months.
(b) Sound : With any change in the sound of the vehicle, we should look at the cause. A typical tell-tale sign is a spitting or hissing sound. If we tap the muffler with the handle of a screwdriver, it should sound solid, rather than rattle as if there are loose parts inside. The pipes and connection should be tight and should not crumble when squeezed. Remember there should be no holes in the muffler although an occasional rust spot that is normal may be visible.
When replacing the system, we must be careful of cheap deals. Some low-priced mufflers are available of materiel that is not resistant to corrosion, such as steel rather than galvanized.
It is important while replacing the muffler that we must get the warranty for loopholes. The warranty may not be include the pipes and the shop may not replace these unless we also pay for new pipes and hence we have got to be careful while subjecting this highly sensitive system to replacement.
That catalytic convertors now introduced in the four metropolis will eliminate many tail pipe nasties, including Benzene. Since they are destroyed by lead, we have to switch to unleaded petrol.
Therefore, don't neglect the bottom of your car.
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