Two quick questions:
1. Should I put any sort of sealer between the exhaust pipe leading into the muffler and the muffler itself?
2. Is there a particular reason to spend money on the special wrench that tightens the nut that holds the exhaust pipe to the exhaust manifold, or can I just use giant channel locks?
Thanks guys!
Michael
A sealer should not be necessary, but the guys at Midas use Permatex. Don't know why - maybe makes it easier to get off later, when their lifetime warranty makes them replace it.
The only reason for the special wrench is the physical size of a Channel lock big enough to fit the nut. Its length makes it mighty unwieldy. But, no, there isn't any particular reason to spend the money if you can do it with what you have.
You won't be able to apply enough torque using channel locks because the more torque you apply to Channel Locks the more squeeze they place on the nut. The nut seems tight, but it isn't. You can read about people who keep having to tighten the exhaust nut, or who have to jury rig some sort of keeper to prevent the nut from falling off. Those guys are using Channel Locks.
My grandfather made his own using a piece of 5/8" steel plate and a band saw.
I find the wrench handy and worked better then anything dad left me. And when engine was warmed up you can give the nut a little more snugging. Works easy from inside pass. compartment with floorboards removed.
Besides, in L.A. it can be deployed for self defense.
George n L.A.
Proto Used to make a high quality adjustable wrench that should do many other jobs and last your lifetime!Even if you buy used,buy quality! Bud.PS/BS,I have lots of tools 45 years old.
To answer your question. No do not use any sealer. The Model T fame is made so that it can twist on bad roads. This twisting motion allows the header to slide in and out of the muffler in a sliding manner. If you locked it the pipe or the muffler would crack or split or bend. So Don't do it.
Thanks guys! Appreciate the advice.
Michael
I'm a cheep skate but I bought the exhaust wrench from Langs and it changes a 45 minute cussing match into a 5 minute job done right with no wear and tear to the exhaust nut. I also use the clamp that holds the nut in place. I don't have exhaust leak problems. My Dad doesnt use either on his 17 and at least twice a summer has to fiddle with the exhaust nut.
Chester, you should loan the wrench to your Dad. Didn't you borrow his tools once upon a time?
I offered to buy him one (he lives in Maine and I live in Virginia) but he insists he doesn't need one. I also offered to buy him a rear wheel puller but he didn't want one of those either.
The above sounds like a couple of good ideas for Christmas presents. He may think he doesn't need those tools (sure he can get by without them), but after using them a time or two, he'll be glad he has them.
Follow this famous quote when it comes to the proper tools for your Ford
If you need a machine and don’t buy it, then you will ultimately find that you have paid for it and don’t have it.
H. Ford