Good afternoon,

The flexi in the front  exhaust system has deteriorated badly (60K miles); I am told that the unit is part of a complete pipe including CAT but I have found replacement parts (Chinese (?)  that can be fitted after the CAT. for around £60

Has anybody had success with this as it seems to require cutting below the CAT and using clamps. Is this cost effective or just a temporary fix?

Any other comments appreciated.

I don't see any reason why this couldn't be an acceptable solution, except to say that some versions I've seen (like the one in the you tube video below) would interfere with the bracket securing the down pipe to the sump.

 

Just sorted this.

The flexi is available as a replacement unit  (eg EveryExhaustPart).

There are two "grades" available (2 or 3  layers of linings) from about £16 to £25. .Use a caliper to get the outside diameter of the pipe on your car (51mm on mine) and allow for the inside diameter of the new part to be just more.(0.8mm seems common)

Cutting the pipes is NOT a hand hacksaw job and an angle grinder cannot get in fully. (started to nick the sump!) A strong reciprocating saw and blade is needed.

The supporting bracket to the sump is a problem; It will not fit  if the clamp on version is used, because the new clamps  are in the way. A weld on version is far better and a decent engineer will do this on the car. However, the outside diameter of the replacement flexi stub  is larger than the bracket circumference will accomodate! The existing bracket needs to be sliced open and rewelded to accomodate it.

So 3 welds and two cuts. Check around for prices! (Back street £40 up!) so budget on £65 up all done. Unless you have welding and cutting kit, it's a no-brainer.

The full unit costs  upwards of £450 at the exhaust racketeers .

There is also available a flexi , bend and flange at £65 or £130 up (fitted)--but again check prices! Same fitting problems plus the rusted flange to rest of exhaust.