Changing Exhaust direction

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Jan 29, 2004 | 01:04 PM

ladykspiderclan

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Changing Exhaust direction

My new 94 Aerostar has the exhaust running out the right rear side, like my 89 did. Anyone have any reason why I can't have it cut and run out the back?

Better still, anyone have any experience on adding headers and what it will do - pro & con, as well as resources, if it's a good idea. Thanks!

Jan 29, 2004 | 01:53 PM

agelder

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From: Acworth, GA

What engine do you have?

The main problem running it out the back is that you will risk getting exhaust fumes in the car. Because of the way gasses flow when you move, if it goes straight out the back, it will get pulled back into a pocket behind the rear door. Given the less-than-airtight nature of our aerostars, there is a chance (though low) for carbon-monoxide poisoning, which is why most mfrs put their exhaust out the rear side on SUVs/Vans. There is less of a pocket for this kind of thing in cars (better airflow around the car) and trucks have the bed as a buffer.

Someone correct me if I'm mistaken.

Jan 30, 2004 | 10:37 AM

Aftrmidnite

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I don't remember which manufacture it was, but we got a service bulletin, at work, on that very topic. As I remember no exhaust out the back or in front on the rear wheels.

Jan 30, 2004 | 12:55 PM

ladykspiderclan

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Well, now that's really wierd, because my 94's exhaust goes out right in front of the right side rear wheels. Could the back door be sealed better to avoid this problem - since the exhaust is ruining plants by the drive when I start the car and my neighbor is getting crraaaanky!

You guys are great offering help. Now if going to a mechanic were just this easy too. I appreciate it a lot.

Feb 1, 2004 | 08:04 PM

xlt4wd90

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From: SoCal

Your tail pipe exiting ahead of the rear tire is kind of strange; there is usually not enough distance between the rear of the muffler and that position to make a smooth bend in the pipes. All the Aerostars I've seen have them existing behind the rear wheel, as would be for most other cars with side exit.

As for headers, nobody makes them for Aerostars. It would have to be totally custom, like anything you want to do to move the tail pipe elsewhere.

Feb 2, 2004 | 07:33 AM

agelder

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From: Acworth, GA

If you want headers, depening on your engine, JBA makes Ranger 3.0L headers that MAY work, and for the 4.0L, I think they make some there too. But it depends on how close a ranger's exhaust is to ours.

Feb 3, 2004 | 01:58 AM

xlt4wd90

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From: SoCal

I called JBA a few years ago about getting headers for a 4 liter v6 in an Aerostar. They told me the Ranger headers will not fit without cutting and welding. They also quoted me a price for custom fabricating a set for the Aerostar that indicated to me that they realy didn't want my business. How about $2500 for a set of headers?