SECTION 4.

35
EXHAUST SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
EXHAUST SYSTEM MAINTENANCE
BACKPRESSURE MEASUREMENT
Measure exhaust system backpressure once a year.
1. Backpressure is measured after the turbochargers
and before the silencer or catalytic converter. The
measuring point should be away from any bend or
elbow in the customer supplied exhaust piping.
2. Remove pipe plug from exhaust elbow and install
tubing connector (see Figure 4.35-1 and Figure 4.35-2).
Manometer line fitting must not protrude beyond inside
surface of exhaust pipe or an inaccurate reading may
result.

PIPE PLUG

Figure 4.35-2 Exhaust Outlet Pipe Plugs

3. Attach one end of manometer onto tubing connector. Opposite end of manometer should be open to
atmosphere.
4. Measure exhaust backpressure at rated speed
and load. Maximum allowable backpressure is
381 mm (15 in.) of water volume at 1800 rpm and full
load. Reduce 25 mm (1.0 in.) water column for each
100 rpm reduction. Do not apply reduction beyond a
minimum exhaust system backpressure of 102 mm
(4 in.) water column.
PIPE PLUG

Figure 4.35-1 Exhaust Outlet Pipe Plug

Excessive backpressure may be due to one or more of

the following conditions:
Undersized piping
Elbows, bends or sudden enlargements in piping
Plugged catalytic converter
Pipe obstructions
Exit losses
5. Remove manometer and install pipe plug in
exhaust elbow after test is completed.

FORM 6284 Third Edition

4.35-1