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Old 12-09-2019, 01:50 PM   #1
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Leaking exhaust?

I have found water leaking out of my exhaust pipe directly behind the catalytic converter. This makes me think that I may have an exhaust leak. At one point during a long drive I had my CO detector go on (and then quickly go off so can't 100% guarantee it was the CO detector, but there was no propane on at the time, and I know I don't have an LP leak).

Has anyone else experienced this? I've heard that the exhaust system can have vents for water, but if there's a vent it isn't visible to me. Anyone have info on this?

Picture attached.

Thanks for your consideration.
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Old 12-09-2019, 03:30 PM   #2
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When do you see it? At first start and run or after a drive. First run till engine is at operating temp, then its condensation. I get a lot on mine till warmed up. If after a drive, then something more serious!
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Old 12-09-2019, 04:05 PM   #3
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Only visible when not warmed up

I found the water because I regularly look at where I've parked it to make sure no leaks. I found a water spot and traced it back to this part of the exhaust. It's right at a connector so that made me immediately suspicious.
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Old 12-09-2019, 05:30 PM   #4
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Water is a byproduct of the combustion process where the Hydrogen in the fuel bonds with the Oxygen in the air. This is why exhaust systems are now either aluminized steel and some stainless steel components.
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Old 12-09-2019, 05:36 PM   #5
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Exhaust leak

If I'm getting water, under the vehicle, am I also getting carbon monoxide leaking underneath the vehicle instead of out the tailpipe?
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Old 12-09-2019, 06:17 PM   #6
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Should be coming out a weep hole and if that much cm was coming out it should set off your dector on board!
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Old 12-09-2019, 06:37 PM   #7
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Water is a normal byproduct of the catalytic converter changing CO to CO2 and water. there should be a little "weep" hole somewhere in your exhaust system to help that drain out.
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Old 12-09-2019, 06:38 PM   #8
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If it is at a mechanical connection (clamp) there is a chance that there is a tiny leak. It likely will go away as the pipes heat up to operating temp and expand. It is definitely worth getting checked out.
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Old 12-09-2019, 09:21 PM   #9
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Normal with a cold exhaust

That's normal from slip fit clamped connections, however I don't see the clamp. There isn't a perfect seal on this type of exhaust connection. Your picture is a little dark, so it's hard to tell.
Once warmed up the moisture exits the tailpipe as vapor.
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Old 12-10-2019, 09:46 PM   #10
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Exhaust leak

Thanks for all the excellent responses.

I took this to a muffler shop that would see me (that was the biggest challenge). A very nice, well seasoned pro helped me. We crawled under and he gave it a good shake. His professional opinion; good to go.

What did I learn? Structural soundness is key, so a little water isn't by itself a problem.

Oh yeah, keep your CO and LP detectors within date spec. The date is on the back. 5-7 years max life.
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