LsLex400

Hello Club Lexus,

I am a new forum member and a new lexus owner. Recently bought a 95 ls 400 with 520 000 km. Rebuilt motor, transmission, new coilovers, radiator, alternator, timing belt for 2500 canadian.

The only issue so far that I have is a exhaust leak near the Y pipe branch point. the mufflers are fine. Smells like exhaust near the drivers side door, the exhaust leak is right underneath. I got a quote from zorro muffler in mississauga to replace the y pipe, straight pipe leading to the muffler (?) and the catalytic converter for 400$ canadian ( exchange rate is ~ 1:1). Technician claimed that there was a crack at the catalytic converter but i do not believe this to be true. The pipes themselves are very rusty due to the canadian winters and the 520000km.

My question is whether that is a fair assessment of the cost associated with this repair. Can i get away with keeping my old catalytic converter? Is it possible to weld new metal on the spots that it is leaking exhaust? And are there any negative consequences of leaking exhaust for the car itself?
I am not willing to put a lot of money into the car unless the repair is required to drive the vehicle, as its a work car for me.

Your input would be appreciated, I tried searching for similar posts with no luck

Thanks

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

it depends on how corroded the metal around the pipe is. rust is like cancer, you need to remove all of it in order to add new material. but for a quick fix, metal can definitely be added at the leak.

if the leak is after the o2 sensors then the car should not complain about it. keep in mind your car as 4 sensors, 2 before each cat and 2 after.

and yes your catalytic converters should still be good. they are known to last the lifetime of the car, even at your mileage! i would try another exhaust shop and have them fix the leak only.

LsLex400

Thanks timmy0tool. i think I shall try to patch the holes for now. I did find all the parts for much cheaper and believe I can handle the replacement myself - heres the link http://www.ebay.com/itm/1995-1996-1997-Lexus-LS400-4-0L-Front-Y-Pipe-with-Catalytic-Converter-OBDII-/271236039461?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3f26ed8325&vxp=mtr

LScowboyLS

1 before each cat and 1 after each

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

^ oops yes thanks for the clarification!