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Geoff Wootton
Prolific User
Username: dounraey

Post Number: 194
Registered: 5-2012
Posted on Thursday, 06 June, 2013 - 03:28:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

I recently replaced the front silencer box on SRX18501. The aftermarket box requires that the original silencer box has to be sawn off. The new box is then a push fit on to the downpipe and a clamp is used to form the seal. However, I am not completely satisfied with this seal and would like an exhaust specialist to remove the clamp and weld this joint. How do I select a good specialist in the absence of a personal recommendation?

I ask this as I have had several encounters locally with service departments that are quite awful in my opinion. My last experience was with a hydraulic hose company that made up a "new" high pressure hose. This is the one that runs from the ACV to the distribution valve. On calling in to collect the part I found that they had cut off the ends of the old part and re-used them on the "new" part. Fortunately I noticed this and got them to make the hose up from all new materials. The mind boggles.

Getting a company to weld my exhaust joint is high risk because if they burn through and molten beads fall into the exhaust system I will have a perpetual rattle when the engine is run. I want to get this work done, but am very concerned that I get this job done properly. So, How do I find a good specialist?

Oh to live in the UK - I could just drive it down to Paul Yorkes place.

Geoff
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Brian Vogel
Grand Master
Username: guyslp

Post Number: 412
Registered: 6-2009
Posted on Thursday, 06 June, 2013 - 03:39:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

Geoff,

All I can suggest is soliciting "word of mouth" information from locals, particularly those who own collector cars.

Also, take a look at Yelp and/or Google Places pages for shops you are considering. If there are enough reviews you can at least get some sense about what others have experienced.

The first method is my primary one since I live "in the hinterlands" as far as Rolls-Royce ownership goes.

Also, I would ask the folks at the shops you elect to speak with what their opinion is about your proposal. Opinions about when/whether welding is a better idea than clamping will vary, but there tends to be some consensus from the exhaust folks I've dealt with. If they don't think a weld is a good idea they'll likely tell you so, and why they think not as well.

Brian
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Colin Silver
Prolific User
Username: colsilver

Post Number: 154
Registered: 8-2008
Posted on Friday, 07 June, 2013 - 20:18:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

Nothing to do with your UK question, but 30 years ago had a bad experience with a mechanic specialising in our cars.

Now have a great company in Bayswater, Vic, Aust.

Yeah, frontage can seem to be the right place. People's experience is what tells you.