Date:         Sun, 14 Jun 1998 16:49:03 -0400
Reply-To:     Mark Hudgik <mhudgik@THE-SPA.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Mark Hudgik <mhudgik@THE-SPA.COM>
Subject:      Exhaust system discrepencies
Comments: To: vanagon@vanagon.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

All,

Ok, I have all the main exhaust components to completely replace my 91
van's exhaust system... from the heads to the end pipe... and now comes the
confusion. <g>

What "gaskets" and bolts/washers do I need to attach the pipe that runs
between the 2-into-1 "manifold" and the catalytic converter?

Easy you say....check your Bentley! Well I did and here is where the
confusion comes in:

1. The Bentley shows a  beveled "donut" type gasket on one end and a flat
gasket on the other. The "donut" gasket end of the pipe is attached with
diaphragm spring washers and bolts.

2. My original installation has a "donut" gasket on EACH end of this pipe,
but no diaphragm spring washers. Did the dealer who replaced my engine last
year forget to install the washers?

3. The Bus Depot exhaust system "package" comes with flat gaskets for these
flanges.

-----------------------------------------------------
My conclusion:
Obtain and use the "donut" style gaskets on both ends. Mount this pipe
using diaphragm spring washers on both ends. This has to be pretty close to
the solution due to the following:

The 2-into-1 manifold and pipe end are "beveled".

My original pipe without diaphragm spring washers is developing cracks at
each flange end.

Only "fly in ointment": Pipe end to cat. is "beveled", cat converter flange
isn't.
-----------------------------------------------------

So what am I missing???...besides a catalytic converter with a "beveled"
flange? ;-)

Thanx in advance...

Mark
**91 Carat**