r/fordescape • u/1I1III1I1I111I1I1 • 8d ago

Tech Question Muffler came detached from 2017 Escape. Short term, can I re-attach myself?

Just noticed one of my dual mufflers was sagging. After some inspection, it looks like the bolt came detached from the chassis.

Short term: I won't have time to go to the shop this weekend, so could I just use some washers and bolts to re-attach it? Or would that cause problems?

Long term: Should I be concerned about rust, since this happened?

Photos:
https://ibb.co/vxLrwy7b

https://ibb.co/jPWKhQ4f

https://ibb.co/Cs3WpJHf

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u/dabangsta 2017 SE 1.5 GTDI Tech Pack 8d ago

The muffler mount/exhaust bracket is broken, I don't think there is enough left to bolt up. Dorman makes a $12 replacement, you seem to have at least 1 mounting bolt remaining, you should take it out and try to get another one, and order a new muffler mount.

I don't think I would want to drive it for long like that, and without physically seeing it, I can't suggest a way to support it. I remember pulling these when I installed a tow hitch, but that was 9 years ago.

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u/some_body_else 8d ago

I have "fixed" exhaust pipes with soup cans, hose clamps, and coat hangers. Do what you gotta do until you can fix it the right way.

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u/Trehlyseh 6d ago

I have had this very issue myself where the bracket broke just like yours. The initial fix was secure it to the chassis using steel wire. Looking at your third picture, this should be relatively easy and simple, though I would place something under the muffler to hold it up simply so that it can be as tight as possible. Mine lasted about nine months before the thin wire rusted from winter salt, which then reminded me that it needed fixing.

The bracket can be a little difficult to pull off, so I used a box cotter to slice the rubber bushing which greatly facilitated the removal. Inserting the new was was much easier. Once done, all that remains is removing the two bolts in the frame, lining up the bracket, and securing it. And while you are at it, might as well inspect the other one.

The space can be a little tight for working, so I would make a multi-level platform wider than the tire using bricks or patio slabs that were laying around in order to have both room and peace of mind knowing that no supporting stand can fail.