whats the point of the square (exhaust question)

[satyr36]

My exhaust leaks around the "square" where the pipes head together to the mid-pipe... can I just cut those 2 pieces out and weld in a straight piece? Am i making sense? lol

[Geonovast]

Do you mean right in front of the cat?

 

That's a flange and should have a gasket. You could probably take it apart, replace the gasket and the bolts, and be fine.

[dasbulliwagen]

I just did this on mine when going through the exhaust system. Chrysler OEM is like 5 bucks, they also have a value line gasket for less than that. Or you can get one aftermarket.

[satyr36]

the problem is, is not the gasket. the pipe is actually damaged and won't seal properly

 

so, back to my question or just cutting it off? why is it such a huge square anyways.. lol

[jpnjim]

The square is a good way of making a connection that can be easily assembled, and disassembled.

 

If the pipe near 'the square' is damaged, I'd replace the pipe, but keep the square (cut it off the old pipe, and weld it back on the new one).

 

If the square is damaged, they're pretty easy to make, use the gasket as a template on a piece of steel plate, drill 4 little holes, and one big one, and you have a new 'square'.

[Oizarod115]

if you do make a new flange right there, or manage to re-use your old one, i would definitely suggest replacing the nuts and studs(i think they're studs) because they rust bad right there.