Son's 1995 850 (180,000-ish miles) was running great, never had any problems in 10 years. He parked it in a garage to go out of town but at the last minute decided to move it. When he started it he said it was "very loud". Had a plane to catch so he parked and left.

I am driving over tomorrow to deal with it. The only thing I know is it was perfectly fine and literally the last time son started it the car was really loud.

Car is parked in my dad's garage. He started it and also said it is loud, perhaps like a no muffler. He drove it around and said it drives fine (that is the only time he has ever driven the car so it is not a knowledgeable opinion).

Car has been sitting since July. Battery is now dead so I can't confirm by listening over the phone.

Any idea what could suddenly fail like that? Presumably it was ok when it was driven into the garage (would have noticed "very loud" when parking in a garage) yet immediately when it was next started it was loud.

I figure I'll load all my tools into my car and head over. Understand there is little to go on by any suggestions are appreciated.

thanks,

Sounds like someone stole the cat converter while in the parking lot. Be prepared to go to an autparts store for a length of exhaust pipe.

Klaus
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Always willing to listen, just not able to take direction.

That was a great suggestion and while expensive would have been a good story.

Fortunately for my wallet it turned out the pipe between the cat and muffler had split. Easy to find on a cold day. First, the cat was present (good news!). Started car and could see water vapor coming from the split in the pipe. Got some fix-it wrap stuff at car parts store and installed. That was good enough to drive the couple hundred miles home where I can deal with it permanently.

Also noticed a small hole in the muffler, looks like it dragged over something. Probably been there a while, it is rusted. If I replace parts it looks like replacing everything behind the cat, otherwise maybe live with the cheap-o tape, clamps and muffler repair goo.

Thanks much for the help,

Terry

The muffler from the cat back is all one piece. The 'new' one I got from a dealer several years ago required a different hanger. It is best to have the car on a lift to replace the exhaust, you need a minimum of 2 ft of ground clearance to get the new pipe on place.

Also get a new clamp and bolts.

Glad to hear you still have the cat :>)

Klaus
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Always willing to listen, just not able to take direction.

Excellent!