i have searched through a lot of threads (very useful now to be able to) and i've read quite a bit about this issue on the VE... but I have a question for those with experience.

my VE motor, from the moment of acceleration after ignition, makes a puttyputtyputty sound. its a quick putt-putt sound that appears to be coming from the closer exhaust manifold.

my question is: from your experience, if it sounds like the leak is coming from that spot, is it usually an accurate way to identify the problem area?

i'm going to have to take off the intake manifold to get at it correct?

thanks
tom

 

Have you checked the flex-section also?

 

common for the flex pipe to leak..check around the mesh..

 

definitely checked the flex, its just fine. however... the y-pipe bolts connecting to the rear manifold are ****ed, they are kind of like... brown, lumpy things. i tore the first one off just seeing if it would turn at all. just a slight twist and *snap* off it came. not sure how i'm going to go about getting it off.
that whole section around the bolts is rusty and ugly, got to replace it all... hopefully that is the source of the leak and not the old broken manifold studs.
if i can get the y-pipe/f-pipe off, would i be able to visually confirm broken studs and a manifold leak?
tom

 

Busted exhaust studs usually make a 'ticking' sound when they are new, and then as they get worse, it'll go to a put-put sound. Just put the car on ramps, turn it on and try and feel for the leak. Just don't breathe too hard under there

 

Studs for sure yo

 

damn i was hoping it wasn't. i havent even been able to get a good look at the rear manifold tho' but the sound... seems to come from exactly there. we'll see - i'll update with pics later
tom