Exhaust "Buzz"

[BrooseDaMoose]

So I'm not sure how to describe this other than a "buzz" from the exhaust. I've had the SPD downpipes and the Thermal exhaust on for about 15 months now and it's been fine. Recently it seemed the exhaust got quieter than it used to be but I figured it was just me getting old. Well about a week ago I started noticing it had a buzz to it that I can hear and feel. It's mostly as the engine gets into the higher RPM's before shifting. It doesn't feel like something is loose; no banging or clunking. I've been trying to isolate it but it resonates throughout the whole vehicle. Has anyone ever experienced anything like this? The vehicle doesn't performan any different, it's just annoying! I haven't changed anything or done any work recently which could account for it.

 

[23 Explorer ST]

I would check the heat shields and make sure it’s not touching anything metal.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[DaveG ST]

I would say you have an exhaust leak somewhere. Check to be sure that all connections and clamps are tight if you have a way to get under the vehicle.

 

[GearHead_1]

Heat shields or break in the catalyst honeycomb?

 

[BrooseDaMoose]

Heat shields or break in the catalyst honeycomb?

I think you may be on to something there. About the same time it began, I noticed some off-white like substance in my exhaust tips! I didn’t think much of it at the time but now that you mention the honeycomb it could be what it is. It would definitely explain the buzz I hear/feel in the exhaust. If that is what’s going on, I hope SPD stands behind their product. How the heck do you find out if it’s cracked?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[GearHead_1]

As a rule, you can bang on the cold convertor, probably the down pipe in this case, with your hand and pick up a rattle.

 

[DaHuntah]

Did you ever figure out what was buzzing?

 

[BrooseDaMoose]

Did you ever figure out what was buzzing?

Not yet. Getting under there today to adjust the camber and will see what I find.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[BrooseDaMoose]

I was able to locate what's causing the noise today. The resonator split open on the top! I have no idea how it happened but hopefully Thermal will work with me to make it right.

 

[GearHead_1]

Glad you found it.

 

[Dale5403]

They should make it right. part only I'm sure but they have a lifetime warranty,
https://thermalrd.com/pages/lifetime-warranty

 

[BrooseDaMoose]

They should make it right. part only I'm sure but they have a lifetime warranty,
https://thermalrd.com/pages/lifetime-warranty

According to the warranty, I have to go through Lethal Performance and send the product back to them for inspection! Meanwhile I have no exhaust! I’ve emailed them to see if I can just buy the resonator and when they get the defective one back, then give me my money back.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[GearHead_1]

How many miles on that system? That looks like it's 20 years old. Have you drilled a drain hole? Now we find out how good Thermal R&D Exhaust truly is.

 

[BrooseDaMoose]

How many miles on that system? That looks like it's 20 years old. Have you drilled a drain hole? Now we find out how good Thermal R&D Exhaust truly is.

It’s got about 12K on it. Installed it in September 2023. Yes, we drilled weep holes in everything. I’m waiting to see if they stand behind their product now.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[BrooseDaMoose]

It looks like Thermal is going to replace the resonator. They emailed me back just to confirm my shipping address. I’m glad I don’t have to jump through all the hoops in their warranty!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk