Aerostar Exhaust
I have a 1993 Aerostar Extended with a 4.0L engine. The exhaust is leaking from a flex pipe that is stock exhaust. My question, what is the purpose of the flex pipe here? Can I replace it with a straight pipe and not cause anything to break?

 

There is always a small amount of motion imparted on the exhaust system due to torque flex from the engine. The flex pipe is there to prevent stress fractures in the system. You can pick up a new one from most parts stores. I would not recommend replacement with conventional tubing.

Since your flex tubing is leaking, you may want to also examine your engine motor mounts for damage. If these are broken they will permit excessive movement in the exhaust system, leading to premature failure of the flex tubing. It is difficult to visually tell if the mount is damaged. Often they must first be removed to tell. The weight of the engine compresses the mount making it appear to be one solid piece when in fact, it may be completely severed and collapsed. Ask a parts store to see a new mount so you having something to compare your old ones to.

 

FWIW: You can get the flex pipe at NAPA. Costs about $50.00

 

Hi 96 xlt 4wd

I to have i leak in the flex pipe but i belive it's due to age and not from the motor mounts failing, if it was are the motor mounts easy to replace by that i mean is it requring a shop to do it or can u do it urself with help.
if you don't replace the motor mount what will happen down the road brake a new flex pipe
TX
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