[ike805]

I have a 1998 Dodge Grand Caravan 3.3 L. It is making a putting sound and I've been told it's the cross over pipe in the engine area that needs to be replaced. Problem is, they're like $600 and totally on backorder for months. What is my alternative? Has anyone else had this problem? I was originally told the part was about $163, but when the mechanic called to order it, they told him they discontinued making that original part, I guess 'cause of the leaking problem, redesigned it and the new ones are $600 and on backorder. I'd like any advice, possibly buying from a salvage yard (one mechanic already found one for cheap-$200 for the whole job) but then there's no guarantee that it's not leaking or might start to right away. I also was thinking about a exhaust repair kit, maybe getting that and wrapping it around the pipe. Any advice/info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.