Exhaust Clamps, Hangers, Gaskets & Seals

When you think of exhaust system parts, mufflers, pipes, catalytic converters and manifolds come quickly to mind. But these components would leak or fall off the vehicle without those unsung supporting players the clamps, hangers, gaskets, and seals. These small but nevertheless important components seal exhaust system component connections, preventing noisy exhaust leaks that could also allow dangerous Carbon Monoxide (CO) to enter the cabin, and support the system to prevent component strain and rattles. We have everything needed to properly seal and support your exhaust system.

A typical exhaust system has several junctions where the components in the system are connected. The parts needed for a secure attachment and a leak-proof seal vary according to the component and connection method. The prevention of exhaust leaks is paramount. A leak before the muffler can create noise, and a leak anywhere in the system can allow poisonous CO to enter the cabin. CO is a noxious, colorless and odorless gas that can enter the passenger compartment undetected, and in sufficient concentrations cause severe illness and even death.

On some vehicles the machined surface of the exhaust manifold is mounted directly against the surface of the cylinder head, but on most applications a gasket is used at this connection. Gaskets are also available for applications not originally equipped with a gasket, as it’s common for manifolds to warp somewhat in service and for the sealing surfaces to corrode and degrade to a point where a gasket is necessary for a tight seal. The manifold flange to exhaust header pipe is another joint where a gasket is commonly used, and components like the catalytic converter often require gaskets.

Exhaust gaskets are generally constructed from embossed steel, multilayer steel, graphite, and copper. There are also composite gaskets with heat resistant material attached to a steel core. While exhaust gaskets must be used in conjunction with fasteners, exhaust clamps both seal and secure components. Clamps are typically used to connect exhaust pipes to mufflers, resonators, catalytic converters, and in some cases to attach exhaust hangers. Exhaust clamps generally fall into 2 categories: band clamps, sometimes called lap joint clamps, and the traditional U-bolt clamps, also called saddle clamps. U-bolt clamps are effective and usually less expensive, but because their clamping force is concentrated it can make component disassembly difficult if necessary in the future. Band clamps apply pressure over a wider area and create less component distortion, so they can be a better choice if ease of disassembly is desired.

Exhaust hangers support the exhaust system in its designed location and insulate the chassis from engine vibration. Most modern OE style hangers are made from reinforced rubber with holes that slip over metal brackets welded to exhaust pipes and/or the muffler, and attached to the chassis. Hangers can crack, tear, and break from age and exposure to heat and the elements. Broken hangers can allow the system to hang low where it could suffer impact damage, and move excessively and contact other chassis components, resulting in noise and vibration. We have a large selection of vehicle specific and universal hangers. Vehicle specific hangers are your best choice for factory style exhaust systems, universal hangers are ideal for custom systems or if a vehicle specific hanger is unavailable.