fumes in the van

[TobyGilden]

I wasn't sure if I was just being paranoid, or if it was just the smell of an older van - but my buddy came in the van earlier and he said he was getting a bit of a head ache.

I use a flue gas analyser for work - so I decided to run some tests in the van while. With the engine running whilst driving about I had a base reading of about 13ppm of CO, which isn't great but not too bad either. I then ran my tester around the engine bay seal and that gave me a huge peak up to about 65ppm.

I then had a look at the exhaust system - in parts it has been sealed with some sort of flue cement, but I don't think it is doing a great job. I really like the exhaust, its a twin empi exhaust - but I think the bit leading up to it needs replacing.

What are your thoughts?

Cheers

[Ralf85]

So part of the system is knackered. Replace it. Don't take any risks. It should fail the next MOT anyway!

[TobyGilden]

I have found a few MOT failures since buying the van (which has a full years MOT), are there any recommendations for exhaust replacements? Is it do-able at home? Or would I need to have the van on a ramp?

Cheers

[TobyGilden]

I have just had a look on brickwerks, and from my understanding, I need to replace the manifold pipes from the cylinders on the left hand side of the engine (i'm not sure if thats 1&3 or 2&4).

[kevtherev]

Empi exhausts rot in weeks...they are made of cheese
Start saving for a stainless system

BTW 200 ppm CO will bring on a headache after two hours

[TobyGilden]

If I bought the stainless manifold pipes would they be compatible with the rest? I'm guessing they are all made to be compatible?

[kevtherev]

If I bought the stainless manifold pipes would they be compatible with the rest? I'm guessing they are all made to be compatible?

you're guessing right.
But the Empi boxes will not be far behind the pipes...I can assure you.

[CovKid]

Agree on that, empi cans almost rust through while you're watching them.

[Aidan]

new engine hatch seal and fix the latches if they have been meddled with and bodged which is quite common, you want nothing coming into the vehicle, if you have the front windows open a crack it will draw air from the rear of the van to the front along with the nasties - tailgate seal is also liable to leak if damaged

[TobyGilden]

I have just a quick google of engine hatch seals to get an idea for price.

just kampers are selling an engine hatch seal for £18, which seems very reasonable;

http://www.justkampers.com/251-813-133- ... -1992.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

but they are also selling an engine bay seal for £72;

http://www.justkampers.com/251-813-226- ... -1983.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;


What is the difference, and which should I be replacing on my van?

Also where could I get replacement catches for the engine cover?

Cheers

[marlinowner]

The second jk seal is for Aircooled engined vans. You would want the first one. I think the catches are only available secondhand.

[TobyGilden]

Brilliant.

Thank you for your help