The exhaust system is an essential part of a smooth-running truck and keeping it free of build-up and debris is an important part of maintaining it. Your exhaust system expels harmful gases, converts gases into less harmful ones, and reduces noise pollution. In this article, we will break down the cleaning process into three steps, and if you have any questions you can reach out to our service team at White’s International Trucks located throughout the North Carolina region.
Step One: Pipes
The exhaust system is designed to release carbon dioxide, but as it does, a small amount of the gases will fuse inside of the exhaust pipe. Not only does this gas build-up look dirty, but it actually affects the performance of the system. Also, as the engine goes through the combustion process, you may notice water dripping from the tailpipe. While this is normal and shouldn’t cause alarm, remnants of water and moisture can settle and cause rust if the pipes aren’t routinely cleaned.
To clean the exhaust pipe, you will need three cloths, a bristle brush, steel wool, water, soap, degreaser, and polish. Before beginning the cleaning process, make sure the pipe has had an adequate amount of time to cool down after driving! Use your cloth and soapy water to wipe down the exterior of the pipe. Once the exterior is clean, switch to your bristle brush to scrub the interior of the pipe.
Use your second cloth to dry the clean exterior and interior, and then prepare your degreaser. Read the instructions to determine how long the degreaser needs to set on the pipe. After it has set for the determined period of time, use your steel wool to scrub off the degreaser, ideally scrubbing in a circular motion.
The final step for cleaning is to apply polish. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the pipe to remove remaining degreaser, moisture, or dust, and then use your steel wool again to apply the polish both inside and outside of the pipe. Allow the polish to set as needed and then use a cloth to buff the polish.
Step Two: Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter removes matter before it exits the tailpipe and over time the build up from this process will need to be cleaned. It is recommended that you take your rig to a professional to have the catalytic converter deep cleaned, but you do have the option of doing a light cleaning without removing it.
First, check that there are no loose parts within the converter by gently tapping it with a hammer. If it sounds like there are loose parts, halt the cleaning process and contact your mechanic. If you don’t believe there are any loose parts or problems, you can purchase an internal cleaner. Add the cleaner to your fuel tank, following the product’s directions, and drive like normal to allow the product to do it’s thing. If you think your catalytic converter could use more attention, schedule an appointment to have a professional handle the rest.
Step Three: Manifold
Just like the pipes and converter, the exhaust manifold will have buildup from the exhaust collection process. Check your owner’s manual to locate the manifolds and determine if this is a project you feel comfortable handling at home. You will need to remove the hoses attached to the manifold, remove the bolts holding it into place, and finally remove the manifold itself.
Use a lacquer thinner to soak the manifold’s interior, and use steel wool or a wire brush to scrub the exterior. Wipe down the entire exhaust manifold with lacquer and allow it to sit. Once cleaned, reattach and troubleshoot.
Routine maintenance and cleaning is an essential part of being a truck owner, and White’s International Trucks is here to help. Schedule an appointment, give us a call or visit one of our seven North Carolina locations today!
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