header problem

[97stratus]

I had a header put on my car a couple of months ago. Since then I've had it to several garages trying to get it to stop leaking. It has been leaking where it comes together with the catalytic converter and I am running out of ideas. Does anyone have a suggestion on how to get it fixed?

[Polygon]

Well first off what is it leaking? The only liquid that should ever come out of your exhaust is water from condensation.

[97stratus]

It is leaking where the header meets the flange. It isn't leaking liquid it is leaking exhaut gases.

[Polygon]

Originally posted by 97stratus
It is leaking where the header meets the flange. It isn't leaking liquid it is leaking exhaut gases.

Oh, hehe, GOOD! Simple, take it to a good muffler shop and have them fix it. What are the places you are taking it to telling you?

[911GT2]

A solid weld (or much more likely new gaskets) should solve your problem right away.

[97stratus]

every place i have taken it to says they fixed it and then by the time I get home it is leaking again.

[SaabJohan]

Maybe you need a better gasket. Can the exhaust pipe expand freely?

[97stratus]

A gasket will not fix the problem. My header isn't leaking at the block it is leaking at the flange that hooks up to the cat. The flange is a bell style one so there is no gasket. And the problem with welding the leak is if it ever needs to be replaced I will have to cut out the whole section.

[911GT2]

I realize the welding will severely damage the header in the long run, that's why i never seriously considered it. Have you thought of installing a new flange?

[AquaDave]

there should be still a gasket for the connection. it should be either a flat gasket shaped liked male end or a doughnut. they also make a liquid exaust sealer put it on before bolting them together. You might just have a bad header. as said before welding might be your only option.

Are you sure it's leaking? or are you hearing "header ping".