How can I test if my headers are leaking?

[JeepinAudiophile]

I recently put my Banks Torque Tube headers on my jeep. same week i did a few other things such as stepping from stock tires up to 30s. I feel like it does not have as much power as it should(look at my signature for mods) When i am beside a building, or any other object that reflects sound... I can hear what sounds to me to be a hissing when i get on the gas. I'd love to know if i'm crazy, or if there's a leak and i need to re-torque the header. Anyone know how i can test for a leak?

 

[mission-inc]

Generally when headers leak due to a crack or leak in the gasket they sort of "click". Well it sounds like clicking atleast. A buddy of mine put some headers on his tahoe a month or so ago and his gasket was leaking and it sounded like it was clicking. The clicking is directly related to the RPM's. And it was louder than his exhaust (headers & flowmaster).

I think he fixed it by putting another gasket on top of the old one. That way the new one helped seal the old one. (his header wasn't perfectly flat I guess, so imagine bolting on headers with a round plate instead of a flat one...your bound to get leaks).

 

[BiggerIsBetter]

Take it down to a muffler shop and ask them to test itwith a stethoscope. The shop I went to did it for free. Good luck.

 

[Gojeep]

Just use a hose in your ear with the other end looking at the suspect points. Also get someone the block the end of the exhuast while holding a lot of rags and it will force the air out of any holes!

 

[JeepinAudiophile]

thanks guys, i think the rag idea is the easiest for right now, but i think ill try taking it down to a shop to get checked later when i get a chance-this site has helped once again...I love these forums!!!