Troubleshooting Troubles with the Chevrolet Tahoe Headers
Headers, or otherwise known as exhaust manifolds, are aftermarket parts that enhance the performance of every car. This kind of upgrade matters a lot to high-performance drivers because of its ability to increase speed. However, it's inevitable at times that this gets worn out especially after years of use. If you suspect that your Chevrolet Tahoe headers are heading to becoming problematic, then here are some troubleshooting tips that you might want to keep in mind to help you diagnose the problem.
Leaks because of cracks
Leaks are inevitable especially when there are cracks on the headers. Aside from it being a nuisance, it can also be harmful once it enters the passenger cabin because it's detrimental to the health. Inspect the exhaust headers for signs of cracks. With your Chevrolet Tahoe on park or neutral on a level surface, lean over the fender panel that's close to the exhaust manifold. Take note of clicking or popping noises. These are caused by a cracked pipe because it makes this kind of sound with regularity every time that the cylinder fires. If you feel slight vibrations in the headers, it's also an indication that there is a leak.
Smell of strong gases
If you smell gas, it's an indication of carbon emissions. You have to keep in mind that a cracked header creates a strong smell of unburned gases because it wasn't able to pass through the catalytic converter. Ask your buddy to rev up the engine a couple of times to check if there's black or dark gray smoke coming out of the exhaust.
Other tips to keep in mind
Keep in mind that a leaking header is very dangerous for both the environment and the passengers since the exhaust gases weren't able to pass through the catalytic converter. It can even affect the performance of your Chevrolet Tahoe because it will produce less backpressure and decrease its fuel efficiency. Plus, it can even ruin some of the exhaust parts, which can be a costlier replacement. The best thing to do is to set regular inspections with an expert mechanic to help you out whether or not you must replace the headers with new ones.