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Your generators’s exhaust system has several components contributing to an efficient operation. Within the system exists metal bellows that create flexibility in areas and can withstand vibrations better than other pipes on the engine. These metal sections are called flex pipes or exhaust expansion joints and can fail from time to time, requiring replacement.
However, it may not always be easy to distinguish when your flex pipe fails. In this article, you’ll learn what a broken flex pipe looks, smells, and sounds like and when you need to swiftly replace the pipe and keep your engine going strong.
Expect the Smell of Raw Diesel Fuel
Another common sign of a broken or cracked flex tube is the noticeable odor of raw fuel. Damaged components tend to leak exhaust fumes, often making their way into the generator room.
A damaged flex pipe may also damage the exhaust manifold itself, resulting in a burning smell coming from the engine bay.
You’ll Hear Loud Hissing Sounds
A loud engine exhaust usually is one of the first indicators of a faulty flex pipe. Once a tube breaks, it may cause an exhaust leak which, in turn, contributes to the noisy hissing or tapping sounds emitting from the engine. This sound can become more pronounced during acceleration.
Knowing what a broken flex pipe looks, smells, and sounds like can help you identify a serious issue that may even place your health at risk. As essential components that help direct emissions away from you, a failing flex pipe may emit higher carbon monoxide fumes inside your generator room, causing nausea and vomiting.
If you discover a damaged pipe within your exhaust system, it’s best to avoid running the generator. Instead, consider contacting a bellow supplier like Triad Bellows for a replacement.
