Exhaust Leak?

[Lazzman]

It seems I have an exhaust leak at the drivers side exhaust manifold. It makes the tell tale ticking noise as I accelerate and cruise around.

I checked the manifold thoroughly and all the bolts are in place and tight. The sound is definately coming from somewhere around there, as it can be heard clearly coming from inside the left fender well.

My questions is; Can this issue effect performance or gas milage? The leak is before the 02 sensors and seems to be a larg leak by the sound.

I am thinking it is the exhaust manifold gasket, but I do not have the money right now to pay someone to fix it.

Thanks for any help.

 

[chapsdeva]

It should not impact the performance or mileage...just make it sound bad. I have a 66 galaxie that I've had to replace the manifold gaskets a few times..not too bad a job if you can the bolts out without snapping them off...PB blaster is your friend here. never attempted it on the Explorer though. The one thing you need to watch out for is getting exhaust gases inside the car. If you smell exhaust you should get it fixed.

 

[Lazzman]

Thanks Chaps.

 

[99ex22]

Chapsdeva-We got a 68 Galaxie! There sweet rides.