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spotrot's avatar
spotrot
Explorer
Nov 13, 2013

polished Stainless Steel exhaust tip - $25 & looks great

I just installed a 18" polished Stainless Steel exhaust tip over the rusty ugly marred 3” tail pipe on my RV and it looks beautiful.


I can't figure how Cherry Bomb can sell a piece this good, rolled edge, slant end, excellent polished finish, a high grade SS (non-magnetic) for $20 and $5 shipping (eBay through Summit, p/n IMM-577492). I’d guess the boxes cost more than $5.

However, it was too tight, even after cutting slots in the end with my $30 sawzall w/fine bit and filing high spots off the pipe. (I also trimmed the tail pipe to match the angle on the tip.)



Good news: The local AutoZone had a pipe expander in the right range. Their tool program allows placing a deposit equal to the tool's cost and refunding it when you return the tool. That's wonderful for those once-in-a-lifetime use tools.

Bad news: I looked at the tool before leaving (essential with used tools) and it looked fine. But at home I find the threads completely stripped off the inside of the nut. The previous user returned it inoperable without saying a word, knowing the next person would waste and hour or two of their time. Bought a new nut, chased the threads, lubed the sliding surfaces and the expander worked. Tip slid on, clamped it with a SS 3” clamp ($8) and it looks so much better.

14 Replies

  • I like it! Might have to get one. I had them on my last MH with new dual tail pipes. I think they look better than just a plain pipe. :B
  • "lipstick on a pig". It's an old joke about cosmetic improvements only. As long as your exhaust is solid, shouldn't be an issue. On my 2004 Chevy pickup, the only part of the truck that rusted was the muffler. I don't know how they made the OEM muffler, but I had two of them completely rust out without any rust on any other componenent.
  • The exhaust pipe is solid. It simply has the minor surface rust that any steel (non-alumiinzed) exhaust pipe experiences.

    Many cars and trucks have stainless or chrome tips for that reason.

    So, I'm puzzled about how the "lipstick on a pig" comment applies.

    Could it be a flashback to someone's past dating practices? :B
  • Very nice. What's that old saying? "lipstick on a pig". I'll bet someday, you'll probably have to replace some of that rusted exhaust system, but for now, that sure looks better.