Dodge RAM 1500 1998 Owner's Manual page 1529

11 - 4 EXHAUST SYSTEM
EXHAUST SYSTEM (Continued)
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - GAS ENGINE
CONDITION
EXCESSIVE EXHAUST NOISE OR
LEAKING EXHAUST GASES
CAUTION:
When servicing and replacing exhaust system components, disconnect the oxygen sensor connector(s). Allowing
the exhaust to hang by the oxygen sensor wires will damage the harness and/or sensor.
EXHAUST SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS CHART
POSSIBLE CAUSE
1. Leaks at pipe joints.
2. Rusted or blown out muffler.
3. Broken or rusted out exhaust
pipe.
4. Exhaust pipe leaking at manifold
flange.
5. Exhaust manifold cracked or
broken.
6. Leak between exhaust manifold
and cylinder head.
7. Catalytic converter rusted or
blown out.
8. Restriction in exhaust system.
CORRECTION
1. Tighten clamps/bolts at leaking
joints.
2. Replace muffler. Inspect exhaust
system.
3. Replace exhaust pipe.
4. Tighten/replace flange attaching
nuts/bolts.
5. Replace exhaust manifold.
6. Tighten exhaust manifold to
cylinder head bolts.
7. Replace catalytic converter assy.
8. Remove restriction, if possible.
Replace restricted part if necessary.
DR