exhaust downpipe leaking!

[justalex81]

Hello peeps

I have 1997 16v gti

i had a new exhaust fitted the other day and when it was on the ramp i noticed that there was the distinct sound of a blowy exhaust coming from the downpipe where the spring joint is. What is involved in removing it so it can be repaired/replaced?

Do i have to take the head off to pull it through from the engine bay cause it doesn't seem like there's much room from underneath the car?

Any help and advice would be appreciated!

[gtigolfthree]

It would be cheaper and less problomatic to take it to an exhaust fitters and get it up on a ramp than removing the head.

[Wayne]

It would be cheaper and less problomatic to take it to an exhaust fitters and get it up on a ramp than removing the head.

+1 much easier.

[justalex81]

i have access to a ramp myself. i just want to know the procedure for removing and replacing it.

[AudiA8Quattro]

I think from memory, you need to drop the subframe to remove it.

[Damilo]

dont change it !! OEM part is OEM part !!!! weld it cost about £20-30 but go to some emigrant garage like polish slovakian or some they will do it properly ! ive done it it mine and save atleast £80 on it 

[VW BUSH]

I think from memory, you need to drop the subframe to remove it.

Loosen it and the rack, real pig of a job if the bolts on the manifold are stuck
Done it on MK2&3 prepare for skin loss and swearing
Dont buy a crappy Euro's/GSF cheapo no name jobby


EDIT: Cut old off part with hacsaw to make it easier to remove

[justalex81]

it's leaking from the joint in the middle of the downpipe so it can't be welded. i'm either gonna put a second hand original one on, or i have to convince the missus that spending £550 on a supersprint manifold is the way forward 

[rubjonny]

no need to touch the subframe on a MK3, simply undo it at the cat and it will come out from above or below. it can be a risk to disconnect it from the manifold, the studs like to shear. I would disconnect the manifold from the head instead.