1999-2009 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Last year, at night, on Interstate headed home, all of a sudden adult deer laying in road. Semi in other lane, no time to scrub speed, I just took foot off gas (didn't brake, didn't want to lower front Aero fascia), centered up on it, kathump. Saw a some plastic pieces in rear-view mirror, got off exit, took a look. The undershield (on left side) plastic damaged, some fur here and there, otherwise, everything OK.
I noticed a "rumbling" sound when the engine was under load, thought that maybe the plastic piece helped muffle engine exhaust noise, besides keeping some electrical components dry.
Replaced the plastic piece, still had noise.
Replaced the spark plugs (and DIC under recall), still have noise.
Didn't really sound like engine knocking, but went from colder-weather mid-grade to premium, no change.
I've been under the car, couldn't see any damage to exhaust, but was thinking that maybe the leak opens up when exhaust hot. I typically don't put the engine under load until well warmed up, but yesterday and today, put a little load on it while still cold. No rumbling.
Any ideas for obvious areas to check? Could I have cracked the exhaust mainfold (I'm assuming that it is cast)? I don't much car for the idea of crawling under the car with engine running (or needing to race engine) to find the leak. I don't know how hot the exhaust tip gets, maybe I could get take old basketball (kids have plenty of those), cut it up, secure with radiator clamp, insert needle valve and air compressor, try pressurizing exhaust system? Sounds a little crazy, would have to do while everything warm, can't imagine it hurting engine any.
sorry for long post
thanks
Ed
2002 Aero SW
1999 SE(4)
posted by 205.196.15...
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