C124 230ce exhaust noise

[SeasidePete]

Afternoon folks. Hopefully someone can help me narrow this down. No issues with the engine in my 1984 c123 230ce.... until today

After a short drive the exhaust note suddenly changed from its usual pur to what can only be described as a wanna be v8. I've also got some lift off crackle and pop!

In a different world I would have quite enjoyed this but not with this car.

Hopefully this link works and you can listen and point me in the right direction; exhaust leak, manifold, miss firing...

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[SeasidePete]

Sorry, this is my c123. Not my 124! Opps

 

[SeasidePete]

Thinking about this, for the last 4 weeks or so, if the car hadn't run for a couple of days she wouldn't start right away.

I'd have to turn her over and over but with no start, leave it 10mins then go back and then she would start.

I'm wondering if it's spark plugs causing a miss fire.

Have checked for holes and leaks on the exhaust. Can't seem to see any.

The noise does seem to be worse in the engine bay.

Will check sparks and leads tomorrow, got a barbie to go to

 

[SeasidePete]

Changed all the spark plugs, no difference. Must be a leak or hole I can't see. Any advice on how to check for holes please?

 

[SeasidePete]

A quick visit to Amazon to get a mechanics mirror revealed a hole in the z pipe big enough to fit 2 thumbs in!

So, just a new z pipe or a new entire stainless exhaust?

Maybe a new manifold too....