Exhaust Manifold Flange
Every internal combustion engine has what is known as an exhaust manifold flange. The exhaust manifold flange for an internal combustion engine is made from a piece of sheet of steel with a bead that extends around the entire outer edge of the part. The exhaust manifold flange is used to connecting at least one stub pipe of an exhaust manifold to the wall of the engine. The part has at least one receiving whole that has another bead around it. This whole is meant to attach the exhaust manifold flange to the wall of the engine via a bolt. There are many different types of exhaust manifold flange offerings to choose from depending on your vehicle and exactly where the exhaust manifold flange attaches to the wall of the engine.
Many times the exhaust manifold flange needs to be replaced when it has rusted. In very humid or wet environments it is not uncommon for these steel parts to rust. If they are not replaced they may not continue to hold the exhaust manifold in place and this could cause problems. If the rusted exhaust manifold flange is not replaced the rust can actually spread onto the exhaust system, which will require that the entire manifold has to be replaced.
The exhaust manifold flange can easily be replaced by those that know where to locate it. Generally this can be done in a short period of time and depending on the amount of rust on the flange a great amount of lubricant may be needed to get it loose. When you are replacing the exhaust manifold flange you will also want to check the gasket and be sure that it has not rotted from too much moisture. While you are under the car you should check the integrity of all of exhaust components to be sure that everything is in good working order.
You can generally find an exhaust manifold flange at your auto parts store. It is often a good practice to bring the rusted manifold flange with you when you go to compare the size and shape of the flange so you are sure that you have the right one. If you cannot bring it with you, be sure to either have the part number as designated by the manufacturer or ask for assistance in choosing the right flange model for your vehicle. There are many kinds of different flanges and you want to be sure that you have the right one so that your exhaust manifold is properly attached to the wall of the engine. If it is not properly attached it can cause the exhaust to actually drop off of the vehicle at the engine which may result in other costly repairs.
If you cannot find an exhaust manifold flange for your vehicle at your local auto parts store you can always order one online. There are many different resources for flanges online, all of which are very competitively priced, which will allow you to replace the flange for less than you might have paid if you purchased it locally. It's always a good idea to price shop a bit to be sure that you get the best price on your exhaust manifold flange.
In most vehicles an exhaust manifold flange can be purchased for less than $100 but there are exceptions to this rule. One thing that should be noted is that not all cars of the same make or model have the same type of flange, so be sure that you shop for the flange that is meant for your specific vehicle or you may run into difficulties with installation that are not necessary.
