Exhaust
Exhaust Leaks — How to Spot Them and Why They Matter
An exhaust leak causes noise, reduced engine performance, and dangerous fumes entering the cab. Early detection prevents further damage.
Exhaust leaks can occur anywhere from the manifold to the tailpipe. Symptoms include a loud or ticking engine noise that gets faster as speed increases, a smell of exhaust fumes in the cab, reduced fuel economy, and a drop in engine performance. A leak before the oxygen sensor can trick the ECU into running a rich mixture, damaging the catalytic converter over time. Small leaks can be detected by feeling for puffing air along the exhaust system with the engine running, or by listening for changes in noise when a rag is held over the tailpipe. Weld repairs are possible for small holes, but badly corroded sections need replacing.
Key takeaways
- A ticking noise that speeds up with revs is the classic exhaust leak symptom
- Cab fumes are a serious health risk — address any smell of exhaust immediately
- Leaks before the O2 sensor can cause incorrect fuel mixtures and converter damage
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