Sable V6-183 3.0L DOHC VIN S MFI (1997)
Exhaust Crossover Pipe: Customer Interest
Exhaust - Y-Pipe Cracks at Bracket
Article No
02-21-8
10/28/02
EXHAUST - EXHAUST SYSTEM Y-PIPE CRACK AT
THE NOISE VIBRATION HARNESS (NVH) BRACKET
FORD:
1997-1999 TAURUS
MERCURY:
1997-1999 SABLE
Article 02-18-3 is being republished in its entirety to update the Warranty Coverage.
ISSUE
On some 1997-1999 Taurus/Sable vehicles equipped with a 3.0L 2V/4V/FFV engine, there is a potential that the exhaust system Y-pipe may fracture at
the Noise Vibration Harness (NVH) bracket, resulting in an exhaust system noise. The Y-pipe cracking is due to a combination of thermal expansion and
contraction stress concentrations at the NVH bracket.
ACTION
A new more durable NVH bracket and repair procedure is now available for service instead of replacing the complete Catalyst assembly to repair the
crack. Refer to the following Service Procedure and install the new NVH bracket.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
Inspect and verify the crack condition (Figure 1).
Remove the Exhaust System as per Section 09-00 of the Workshop Manual.
Clean the area of the crack with a wire brush. Repair the crack by welding it.
Please note the exhaust system is made of # 409 stainless steel and should be welded with similar material, (stainless), to insure maximum service life.
Failure to use stainless weld material will cause premature corrosion of the welded area of this service repair.
