Engine Exhaust System: Diagnosis Chevrolet Silverado 3500

Diagnostic Starting Point - Engine Exhaust

Begin the system diagnosis by reviewing the system Description and Operation. Reviewing the information will help you determine the correct symptom diagnostic procedure when a malfunction exists. It will also help you determine if the condition described by the customer is normal operation. Refer to Symptoms - Engine Exhaust in order to identify the correct procedure for diagnosing the system.

Symptoms - Engine Exhaust

1. Review the Exhaust System Description and Operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to «Exhaust System Description»(ref-184230-S32654647862005082200000) .
2. All diagnostics on a vehicle should follow a logical process. Strategy Based Diagnostics is a uniform approach for repairing all systems. The diagnostic flow is the place to start when repairs are necessary and may always be used in order to resolve a system problem. For a detailed explanation, refer to «Strategy Based Diagnosis»(ref-184175-S38436736992005082200000) in General Information.

Visual/Physical Inspection

1. Inspect for aftermarket or non-OEM devices such as, but not including; tailpipe extensions, headers, and exhaust cutouts. This could affect the operation and proper performance of the exhaust system.
2. Verify the exact operating conditions under which the concern exists. Note factors such as engine RPM, engine temperature, engine load, and frequency of concern.
3. Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause any symptom.

Symptom List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom

1. Loss of power Refer to «Restricted Exhaust»(ref-184230-S17633363782005082200000) .
2. Poor acceleration Refer to «Restricted Exhaust»(ref-184230-S17633363782005082200000) .
3. Poor fuel economy Refer to «Restricted Exhaust»(ref-184230-S17633363782005082200000) .
4. Excessive smoke (diesel) Refer to «Restricted Exhaust»(ref-184230-S17633363782005082200000) .
5. Exhaust hissing noise Refer to «Exhaust Leakage»(ref-184230-S03056936712005082200000) .
6. Exhaust popping noise Refer to «Exhaust Leakage»(ref-184230-S03056936712005082200000) .
7. Exhaust rattle noise Refer to «Exhaust Noise»(ref-184230-S18158395552005082200000) .
8. Loud exhaust noise Refer to «Exhaust Noise»(ref-184230-S18158395552005082200000) .
9. Exhaust buzz, groan, hum noise Refer to «Exhaust Noise»(ref-184230-S18158395552005082200000) .

Diagnostic Aids

If the vehicle is equipped with a 6.6 L diesel engine do not perform this diagnostic. The exhaust system does not have a location for installing the J 35314-A See Special Tools and Equipment . Instead remove the suspect component, operate the vehicle, verify for improved performance. If performance is improved then replace the faulty component.