CAT Exhaust came apart

[rver98]

I searched the internet on CAT exhaust and found out that the connections have come apart where the joints are (clamp still in tack). Apparently the clamps that CAT installed were slightly larger than the pipe allowing it to slip off. Has anyone had this happen?

[rver98]

Quote:

Originally Posted by rver98 I searched the internet on CAT exhaust and found out that the connections have come apart where the joints are (clamp still in tack). Apparently the clamps that CAT installed were slightly larger than the pipe allowing it to slip off. Has anyone had this happen?

Here is a link to Freightliner describing their resolution.

Service Bulletins

[movin-on]

I just installed an Aero 5050XL on my 02 Horizon...During the installation the pipe from the out side of the exhaust brake just fell off with the existing band clamp...When I reinstalled it I used a good old fashioned 4" U-clamp...

[rver98]

This is where my issue is also. Maybe I will try the 4" clamp as you recommended! Thanks

[1ciderdog]

Does anyone know if this problem is in a certain year range or serial number range?
Thanks
Bob

[movin-on]

Quote:

Originally Posted by rver98 This is where my issue is also. Maybe I will try the 4" clamp as you recommended! Thanks

On the U clamp that I purchased, the bottom part of the U is flat...I think it will do a better job than the standard clamp U that is round....Got it here where I ordered all the fittings for my Aero muffler...
U-Bolt Exhaust Clamp 4"

[Chuck 1935]

You really want to use a Band Clamp. I don't know what size you are looking for but I have included a web site that will get you started. If they don't have the size do a look up for Truck Exhaust parts.
Band Clamps WILL solve your problem. The sell them stepped or streight and will never come apart.


1, JEGS Preformed Stainless Steel Exhaust Band Clamps - JEGS

2, http://www.anythingtruck.com/Merchan...AMPS-PREFORMED

[movin-on]

The stepped band clamp is what was originally on my rig...It came apart... If you look at rver98's second post it shows the fix for the clamp...Didn't want to do that...I'm not doubting that band clamps work but I guess I'm just old school...If the joint comes apart now it won't be because of the U clamp...

[Chuck 1935]

Quote:

Originally Posted by movin-on The stepped band clamp is what was originally on my rig...It came apart... If you look at rver98's second post it shows the fix for the clamp...Didn't want to do that...I'm not doubting that band clamps work but I guess I'm just old school...If the joint comes apart now it won't be because of the U clamp...

I just looked at that hack job done by Freightliner and the fool that did that fix should be fired. He left all the clamping slots open for an exhaust leak. Those slots are there to be used with a U clamp. The U clamp crimps the whole thing together so it won't come apart. The alternative is a band clamp BUT it has to be of the right size and tight. The plus of the band clamp is that if you have to take it apart you easily can. If it's not done right it will fall apart.

[movin-on]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chuck 1935 I just looked at that hack job done by Freightliner and the fool that did that fix should be fired. He left all the clamping slots open for an exhaust leak. Those slots are there to be used with a U clamp. The U clamp crimps the whole thing together so it won't come apart. The alternative is a band clamp BUT it has to be of the right size and tight. The plus of the band clamp is that if you have to take it apart you easily can. If it's not done right it will fall apart.

Agreed .....I just prefer the slip joint and U clamp method as long as you torque them down correctly...I always put put anti seize on the pipes so they will come apart with a tap from a mallet...Hard to teach an old dog ya know...

[Chuck 1935]

Quote:

Originally Posted by movin-on Agreed ....I always put put anti seize on the pipes so they will come apart with a tap from a mallet.. .Hard to teach an old dog ya know...

I know, Chuck 1935

[movin-on]

Quote:

Originally Posted by rver98 I searched the internet on CAT exhaust and found out that the connections have come apart where the joints are (clamp still in tack). Apparently the clamps that CAT installed were slightly larger than the pipe allowing it to slip off. Has anyone had this happen?

BTW...They are Freightliner installed clamps not Caterpillar....No engine maker installs the exhaust system...It's the chassis maker that does...

[wagonmaster2]

Quote:

Originally Posted by rver98 Here is a link to Freightliner describing their resolution. Service Bulletins

I had mine done that way several years ago per the Freightliner recall notice. Didn't know what to expect them to do for the recall. What a crappy deal and really a sorry way for Freightliner to deal with clamps not holding. Why didn't they do the job right and install the correct clamps in the recall (I know, just to save money-to heck with the customer). This and several other problems definitely puts Freightliner Chassis at the very bottom of my next "want list.

Wagonmaster2