Exhaust System

PURPOSE: This rule describes the procedures and standards for the inspection of the exhaust system. The inspection of the exhaust system is a requirement of section 307.365, RSMo. (1) All motor vehicles shall be equipped with a properly attached exhaust pipe, muffler and tail pipe. (2) All items must be inspected with the motor running. Holes in the system made by the manufacturer for drainage are not cause for rejection. Do not block or place anything over the end of the tailpipe to check for leaks. (3) Reject vehicle if: (A) A manifold, manifold gasket, flange gasket or a connection or any other component is loose or leaking; (B) Muffler, exhaust pipe, tailpipe or resonator has holes, leaking patches or seams. Only patches made with an arc or acetylene weld will be permitted; (C) Tailpipe end is pinched or broken off from rear support bracket; (D) Any part of the system is supported by wire, or if any component is not securely attached by supporting hardware, such as bolts, brackets, clamps or hangers; (E) Tailpipe is located so that a person may be burned on entering or leaving passenger compartment; (F) Any part of system passes through passenger compartment; (G) Tailpipe fails to discharge exhaust away from under passenger compartment of commercial motor vehicles; (H) Tailpipe fails to discharge exhaust from the rear or sides of the passenger and luggage compartment on passenger vehicles; (I) Vehicle has no muffler; (J) Tailpipe fails to discharge exhaust away from the sides or rear of a camper which is mounted on a motor vehicle and which is equipped with permanent cooking, heating and sleeping facilities; or (K) A commercial vehicle has a tailpipe extending beneath the cargo area that leaks or is improperly supported. AUTHORITY: section 307.360, RSMo 1994.* Original rule filed Nov. 4, 1968, effective Nov. 14, 1968. Amended: Filed March 27, 1969, effective April 6, 1969. Amended: Filed March 9, 1970, effective March 19, 1970. Amended: Filed Nov. 9, 1971, effective Nov. 19, 1971. Amended: Filed Aug. 17, 1972, effective Aug. 27, 1972. Amended: Filed May 21, 1974, effective May 31, 1974. Amended: Filed April 2, 1992, effective Sept. 6, 1992. Emergency rescission and rule filed Aug. 1, 1997, effective Sept. 2, 1997, expired Feb. 28, 1998. Rescinded and readopted: Filed Aug. 1, 1997, effective Jan. 30, 1998. *Original authority: 307.360, RSMo 1967, amended 1971, 1973, 1979.