Drove through puddle - now loud, loss of power

[LobsterThief]

Hey guys,

 

The hurricane's passing by us (in Tampa) and last night I hit a rogue puddle at about 30. Now the MJ sounds really loud (almost like an exhaust leak) and has a definite loss of power.

 

I haven't replaced my wheel well splash guards yet (stupid, I know) since they broke, if that's any help.

 

What should I start pulling apart and checking? Thanks!

[87Warrior]

My guess would be a cracked exhaust manifold. A hot, prone to cracking manifold, quickly exposed to cold water while being jolted around....crack.

 

A large crack can also hurt performance.

[LobsterThief]

My guess would be a cracked exhaust manifold. A hot, prone to cracking manifold, quickly exposed to cold water while being jolted around....crack.

 

A large crack can also hurt performance.

 

This makes a lot of sense! Any recommendations on checking it (short of pulling the thing)?

[87Chief]

Might sound weird but it works..

 

Cut a water hose about a foot or 2 and put it to your ear and go along the exhaust system.

 

Also I would check your distributor cap I went puddlin with some buddy's one time and I had a loss of power and some water got into my distributor cap.

 

Good luck!

[opsled]

I would suggest looking under the truck. You might find an answer there.

 

opsled

[LobsterThief]

Took a quick peek (once the rain had stopped) and discovered the exhaust pipe had actually ripped out of my original muffler. Replaced it with a shiny new one and now it's good to go ;) Thanks guys