Hunting Season Trucks: Exhaust Checks Before You Head Down the Back Roads
This time of year, a lot of trucks around Williamson County trade pavement for gravel roads, field edges and muddy pull-offs. Hunting season is hard on the underside of a truck, and the exhaust hangs lower than almost anything else under there.
Before you head out, take a quick look underneath. Make sure the exhaust is held up snugly and isn't sagging lower than it used to. Rubber hangers wear out with age, and a single broken one can let the whole system drop just enough to catch on a rock or a rut.
After a few trips, check again. Look for dents, scrapes or pipes that have been pushed out of place. A dented pipe can restrict how the exhaust flows, and a crushed section can crack and start leaking. Listen for new rattles, especially one that wasn't there before you went out.
Here's a fall safety tip that matters a lot for hunters. Your exhaust and catalytic converter get hot enough to start a fire in dry grass and leaves. Try not to park your truck over tall dry grass in a field or at the edge of the woods, especially after a long drive when everything underneath is at its hottest.
It's also worth paying attention to any exhaust smell inside the cab. If a pipe was damaged or a joint came loose, fumes can find their way inside, especially when you're sitting with the engine running to stay warm before sunrise. If you notice that smell, crack a window and get it looked at soon.
If your truck has taken a few hits this season, we can get it on the lift, check every hanger and joint and fix what's been knocked loose. For diesel trucks, we can help with exhaust repairs and upgrades while keeping all of your emissions equipment in place. Call Quick Muffler at (615) 790-2385 or stop by 121 7th Ave S in downtown Franklin, Monday through Friday from 7 to 5.
