[Carbuff2]

I'd suggest getting a second opinion from another shop.

I don't see why those mounting studs couldn't be cut off (with a tool called a Dremel) and replaced. There is a gasket between the two pipes but once they are separated it could be replaced easily.

If the first shop said "I can fix it, but if I need to replace the manifold, its $800" that is fair...just letting you know a worst-case scenario.

 

[Wes Kootenay]

I'd suggest getting a second opinion from another shop.
I don't see why those mounting studs couldn't be cut off (with a tool called a Dremel) and replaced. There is a gasket between the two pipes but once they are separated it could be replaced easily.

I agree.
If the leak is from that flex joint, it's a fairly easy fix requiring two new bolts, nuts and gasket. The springs may have lost tension and should be replaced as well. A quick parts search shows the OEM gasket to be expensive, around $40.
Good luck with this.

 

[DashingDaryl]

I also think you should take it to another shop. From what you say, it sounds like the first shop is not confident on how it will turn out. They are probably quoting you high so you will go someplace else or you they want some cushion "just in case"

Since you know it is an exhaust problem, you may want to go to an exhaust specialist. They are probably used to dealing with Rusty exhaust and bolts

 

[chidog]

To fix that it is a huge job. How rusty are the bolts that go into the head? Those nuts just don't fall off and get replaced they will need to be cut off, since they are welded on. You may get away cutting or breaking the long bolts, but you will need to remove the manifold to cut those nuts off. Its not like there is a ton of space to work on that in the car. I like how everyone thinks things like this are so simple and easy. Nope.
I would not want to do that job for peanuts.

 

[Wes Kootenay]

@chidog
Maybe I've got the problem wrong? From the OP's pictures, I was presuming the leak is from a blown flex joint gasket, not the manifold gasket?

 

[udraft]

Yes, from what I see on the photos the fasteners on the pipe/manifold joint are broke. Easy fix, may want to torch or cut it off.

 

[Wes Kootenay]

Oops!

 

[chidog]

@chidog
Maybe I've got the problem wrong? From the OP's pictures, I was presuming the leak is from a blown flex joint gasket, not the manifold gasket?

Yeah we are both talking the same thing. To fix the rusty mess the manifold needs to be removed. And then yes after the manifold has been removed then a new gasket and maybe bolts too. And hope none of the manifold bolts get broke in the process. If I was bidding on that job, the owner needs to know that could happen. Then the job turns into a head off job.
When dealing with rust, the job difficulty increases hugely.

 

[Pencil]

I would get a second quote. Take it to a muffler shop, they can work some serious magic for like $200.

Recently I developed an exhaust leak and it turned out to be two cracks in my downpipe. My mechanic repaired it with some welding and re-installed it for about $150, and performance-wise it's as good as new.

EDIT: I should also comment, my CR-V is also very very rusty. A competent mechanic shouldn't care too much. But dealing with rusty bolts does add more labor = higher price.

 

[chidog]

1 post and gone for good?

 

[Wes Kootenay]

1 post and gone for good?

I'm on many forums - CR-V, tractor, snow blower, moped. It happens all the time.
Busy lives or just ignorant?