Tips on where to look for an exhaust leak? (1 Viewer)

[47.46.45]

Hey all.
Own a 93 Honda Prelude which is unluckily second hand, so occasionally I have wtf moments with it. Anyway, today I noticed there was a really strong exhaust smell that was either unfiltered exhaust venting or burning oil. Am fairly sure it's an exhaust leak (replaced all the seals when I did the timing belt, so oil leak is pretty unlikely?) and I'm also fairly sure it's engine side of the catcon because it's a pretty strong smell.
Anyway, I'm thinking I'll whack her up on a hoist tomorrow and see if I can see any glaringly obvious flaws on the underside. Where would you say the most common places for a leak would be and do you agree with my analysis of what's going on?
T/y for advice =)

 

[CieL]

Running rich?

 

[47.46.45]

Running rich?

Hrrrm, hadn't considered that. Will check on the o2 sensor.

 

[veterandoggy]

well, depending on how old it is/how good the guy who sealed the leaks was, it could be burning oil. but burning oil is usually smelt when you really floor it. at which point you can open the hood after you hop out and give it a good whiff. if the smell is the same one you're smelling, then its burning oil.

 

[Jiga]

You have your oil changed recently? Could be something minor like that, spilling alittle oil onto the engine (particularly the exhaust) will make your car smell for ages.... not sure about the Preludes but if its a V6 also these can have leaks around the valve cover gasket which then drips onto the exhaust and causes a smell (although Im 90% sure Preludes aernt V6s?). And you should really clarify, exhaust does smell different from burning oil... its quite distinctive! So is it an oil or exhaust smell? Also Im assuming if you have an exhaust leak you would hear noises as a result; a cracked exhaust manifold usually makes a ticking noise, other leaks may cause hissing noises etc.

^ Some things to consider

 

[CieL]

100% sure Preludes are all inline 4s.