The exhaust manifold is an essential part of a vehicle’s exhaust system, as it is responsible for collecting and directing the exhaust gases from the engine’s combustion out of the vehicle.
This component plays a fundamental role in engine performance and efficiency, directly influencing vehicle performance and the quality of the air emitted.
Understand what it is and what it is used for, as well as the main indicators of problems with your car’s exhaust manifold.
What is an Exhaust Manifold?
It is a crucial component of an internal combustion engine’s exhaust system.
It gets its name from the network of pipes that are attached to the car’s exhaust pipes and which are connected to the engine.
What is the Exhaust Manifold for?
Due to its structure, the exhaust manifold is responsible for receiving the gases that result from the engine’s combustion, as well as expelling them to the outside.
When the exhaust valves open, these pipes remove the combustion gases from each cylinder.
Where is the exhaust manifold located?
This component is located on the side of the cylinder head, fixed with an exhaust gasket.
What are the main components of the exhaust manifold?
The main components of the exhaust manifold are:
- Outlet flange;
- Sealing gaskets;
- Collection plate;
- Oxygen sensor;
- Exhaust pipes;
- EGR valve.
How does the exhaust manifold work?
In general, it collects the burnt gases from each cylinder, regardless of the number of cylinders in the engine. On the other hand, the exhaust manifold uses its high temperature to completely expel any unburned or partially burned gases.
As well as collecting the exhaust gases, the manifold houses an oxygen sensor near the outlet. This sensor sends information to the fuel injection system to adjust the fuel and air mixture, ensuring engine efficiency.
After collecting the exhaust gases, the collector directs them to the rest of the exhaust system, passing through the catalytic converter which filters out the pollutants. It then circulates to the exhaust pipe and silencer before being released into the atmosphere.
Some manifolds also have a turbo and EGR valve, which help to increase efficiency and reduce emissions.
What are the main causes of exhaust manifold problems?
Exhaust manifold problems can be caused by a number of factors.
The main causes of problems with this component are:
- Thermal shock;
- Accumulation of carbon deposits and other debris;
- Misaligned engine components;
- Abnormal wear or improper installation;
- Continuous exposure to hot exhaust gases;
- Engine vibrations
What are the symptoms of an exhaust manifold leak?
When there is a leak in this component, the following signs usually appear:
- Strong exhaust smell inside the car;
- Smoke coming from the engine;
- Check engine light on the dashboard;
- Increased fuel consumption with no change in driving pattern;
- Reduction in engine power and acceleration;
- Noises in the engine, such as a “pop” or “puff”;
- Higher than normal engine temperature.
How to clean the exhaust manifold
Although it is a complex process, care must be taken to ensure that the work is done effectively and safely.
To clean the exhaust manifold, the mechanic needs:
- Remove the manifold from the vehicle for safety;
- Spray or apply gel to the exhaust manifold and leave it on for a while;
- Once the product has worked, use a metal bristle brush or nylon brush to scrub the collector;
- Rinse the component to remove the product and dirt;
- Allow the collector to dry thoroughly before reinstalling it.
Tools Needed to Replace the Exhaust Manifold
To replace this component, you need:
- Socket wrenches;
- Adjustable Spanner or Open ended wrench;
- Allen or Torx key;
- Hydraulic jack and auto jack stands;
- Goggles and gloves;
- Diagnostic tools such as an infrared thermometer to check the manifold temperature and a leak detector.
Where to Replace the Exhaust Manifold?
It’s best to look for an exhaust workshop, as you’ll find a specialized team with the necessary equipment to repair this component effectively.
What are the Maintenance Tips for Preserving the Exhaust Manifold?
To extend the life of this component, you should carry out preventive maintenance on your vehicle’s engine.
You should, too:
- Use quality fuel;
- Avoid accelerating sharply or driving when the engine is cold, as this can cause excessive condensation on the exhaust system components, leading to corrosion.
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