Quote:
Originally Posted by gatorblue92
I just did an inspection of the exhaust system and it looks like you may be on to something with this suggestion. The exhaust is split right by the flange and leaking there so that might be what I'm hearing. If not it is causing the exhaust smell in the cabin  |
Any exhaust leak under the hood is going to make a big racket. Whatever the outcome, this needs to be addressed. I'd also take the time to check the manifold bolts and look for signs of a leaky gasket.
The bad oil analysis results may or may not be related to the current issue, but it can't be ignored. It doesn't sound like you have a rod knock to me, but other noise may be masking a budding issue. I'd wait just long enough to get another good sample to submit for another oil test, but only if repairing exhaust leaks restores the engine to what it sounded like before it became a concern. If a second test yields the same results, then it would be most prudent to inspect the bearings.