For a number of different reasons, exhaust system work can be among the most
dangerous types of work you can do on your car. Always observe
the following precautions:
- Support the car extra securely. Not only will you often be working directly
under it, but you'll frequently be using a lot of force––such
as heavy hammer blows, to dislodge rusted parts. This can cause a car that's
improperly supported to shift and possibly fall.
- Wear goggles. Exhaust system parts are always rusty. Metal chips can be
dislodged, even when you're only turning rusted bolts. Attempting to pry pipes
apart with a chisel makes chips fly even more frequently.
- If you're using a cutting torch, keep it at a great distance from both the
fuel tank and fuel lines. Stop what you're doing and feel the temperature
of fuel bearing pipes and the tank frequently. Even slight heat can expand
or vaporize the fuel, resulting in accumulated vapor or even a liquid leak
near your torch.
- Watch where your hammer blows fall. You could easily tap a brake or fuel
line when you hit an exhaust system part with a glancing blow. Inspect all
lines and hoses in the area where you've been working before driving the car.
