Date:         Tue, 23 Nov 1999 21:44:06 -0800
Reply-To:     "Tom L. Neal" <jneal@NETCOM.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         "Tom L. Neal" <jneal@NETCOM.COM>
Subject:      Re: Syncro Muffler Brackets Self Destruct!
In-Reply-To:  <38399B00.BE6C781F@email.sps.mot.com>
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII

My right one broke.  When I replaced it, a strong vibration occurred at
about 38 mph.  Readjusted and it's better, but a vibration like that could
create huge forces that could break brackets when combined with the
expansion/contraction due to heating and cooling.  Someone alluded to the
proper way to adjust these, and I'd be interested in what that is.

Cheers, Tom Neal

On Mon, 22 Nov 1999, John-Reed Maffeo wrote:

> Started to work replacing the muffler on my '86 Syncro this weekend
> and discovered that both brackets had self destructed.
>
> They seem to have succumbed to stress fractures in different
> locations on each. I had not inspected them closely prior to
> starting their removal and only discovered the damage after
> they were out.
>
> The brackets are a dealer only part to the tune of $58.00 each.
> (More than the cost of a new muffler:( and have to be special
> ordered:((
>
> There seemed to be mechanical tension on the exhaust assembley
> pushing against the brackets. This may have caused the problem,
> I don't know. There is an adjustable fitting upstream from the
> cat. When I get the new brackets and reassemble everything, I will
> try to adjust things to reduce the stress.
>
> Anyway, all you Syncro owners, check your brackets closely before
> you order your new muffler.
>
> John-Reed Maffeo '86 Syncro - Glacie
> Mesa, AZ
>