[zholmes1117]

Is it normal to weld in x pipe? Or is it possible to clamp it in? Trying to avoid rust and corrosion around welds a couple of years after installing. Is there not a bolt on x pipe that runs from the flanges off the cats to the rear muff? All help appreciated.

 

[PONY MAN]

Exhaust clamps provide quick installation and removal of said component(s) in lieu of paying both money and a visit to the local muffler shop. In my very humble opinion, exhaust clamps work best for single connections. For example, y-pipe to catalytic converter (1) to mid-pipe (1) to muffler (1) to tailpipe (1). Will venture to say, most people (self included) recommended welding the x-pipe onto the exhaust for longevity purposes versus using four exhaust clamps to secure it in place. Cannot deny or confirm the availability of a bolt-on x-pipe for the G8.

 

[zholmes1117]

Thanks for the reply. What do you think in terms of longevity though? Normal welds to the undercarriage won't hold more than a couple years unless I have my mechanic pull the exhaust from cat back to do a stainless tig weld? Trying to limit expenses and a normal weld without removal will undergo corrosion? And the clamps have an average of how long of life?

 

[PONY MAN]

Longevity depends on a variety of factors including driving conditions, quality of the weld and material used. One thing to note about exhaust clamps is that over-tightening the bolts could cause the bottom portion (sharp-edges) to cut through the pipe resulting in an exhaust leak. Also, exhaust clamps cannot completely seal the two members together and typically generate a very subtle sound as small amounts of air escape past the clamps. However, the sound difference is mainly noticeable when one is very close to the clamped sections of the system. Have seen some muffler shop welds last for years while others only lasted a few months.

 

[zholmes1117]

Would straight pipe be a alternate option for this issue? Less cost and if welds fail won't have to have multiple welds? Thanks for input

 

[$omeoldguysG8]

If you are insistent on using clamps to squish the connections together, try this or something similar to seal the joints:
https://www.permatex.com/products/gasketing/ultra-series-gasket-makers/permatex-ultra-copper-maximum-temperature-rtv-silicone-gasket-maker/
I've used it to seal the joints on my bike header and it lasted for years.

 

[zholmes1117]

How many years would you say?and are straight pipes anything too different than the x pipe?

 

[zholmes1117]

Just trying to make these upgrades last over spending $$$ on a cat back system

 

[PONY MAN]

Would straight pipe be a alternate option for this issue? Less cost and if welds fail won't have to have multiple welds? Thanks for input

You're welcome. A straight pipe might be a feasible option and since there are fourm exhaust "specialists", hopefully a few of them will comment on the thread.

How many years would you say?and are straight pipes anything too different than the x pipe?

Would venture to say the lifetime of the vehicle based on looking at various vehicle's prior repair work over the years. Of course, a lot of it is contingent on the quality of the weld done by the welder since then break loose for a variety of reasons. Don't know if a gas versus electrical welding machine would produce more favorable, longer-lasting results. Found an article which may be of interest to you... https://www.carid.com/articles/are-x-pipes-and-h-pipes-better-than-straight-pipes-on-dual-exhaust-systems.html

 

[Er70s-2]

Exhaust clamps provide quick installation and removal

It depends on what clamps you're talking about. Some make for easy removal, some don't.

Don't know if a gas versus electrical welding machine would produce more favorable, longer-lasting results

A gas welding machine? What are you talking about?

 

[PONY MAN]

It depends on what clamps you're talking about. Some make for easy removal, some don't.

A gas welding machine? What are you talking about? Any "muffler shop" is going to mig it together, and anyone who actually knows what they're doing will tig it together

1. Walker exhaust clamps used on vehicles in the past, and if necessary, can post several pictures of them. 2. Am well aware of a variety of exhaust clamps and can discuss particulars once the original poster decides whether he prefers a welded or clamped on scenario. 3. An a.s.e. certified mechanic nearly eighty years old who has turned bolts for the majority of his life stated it depends on whether it is a gas or electrical welding machine. Now, perhaps it would have been better to preface the question by stating the welds would be done on a vehicle versus say... burglar bars or patching a hole in a submarine underwater. 4. Anything else?

 

[GT Drew]

Find an exhaust shop that does High End exhaust work. They will use a stainless based wire for the MIG and it will be as long lasting as the pipe itself.
You can then coat them with VHT Satin Clear Header Paint.

 

[zholmes1117]

Thanks for the info. That's what I was wondering. Is it a big difference in price?