So my RX330 started sounding like it had a ever cold suddenly. All related to throttle position which is usually a dead giveaway for an exhaust leak.

So I ordered a full gasket set. Replaced the gaskets that are post catalytic converters, the gasket linking those pipes to the long pipe leading to the muffler, and the gasket from the muffler pipe to the tailpipe.

Problem solved right?

Not so fast my friend.

Noise still present. Still as loud.

Went back and inspected again. Noise still primarily coming from post Cat Converter pipes near gasket to long pipe which has muffler on it.

Did the old shade tree tissue in hand trick to try and spot exact area of leak. As I ran tissue along pipe at gasket I spotted no movement at gasket. Hmm. Then I ran tissue along towards muffler about 3 inches and bam. Movement. Right at the weld where the bracket/metal stick was welded to pipe that connects rubber holder to chassis, the weld had busted and was letting exhaust through pipe.

Took off long pipe with muffler. Got welder out. Poorer a bunch of metal at bracket point where leak had occurred. It was ugly but the job was done.

Aside from my horrible welding, it was a fairly easy job. Hardest part was getting rubber holders off each bracket post.

Just an FYI to look for in case you may have an exhaust leak in future.

 

Good to know. Caused by rust? Didnt think a houston vehicle would have that issue. Did you buy new or get from northeast?

 

Not from rust my friend. It was just a weld that gave loose due to metal fatigue I'd bet. My pipes actually looked in really good shape. I even looked up into Cats and dust see hardly any metal flakes on the screen which is a good sign.