I think i may have an exhaust problem. While in my car after driving for a bit and the car is warmed up an enormous amount of heat builds up around my feet and around the console and passengers feet area. What could be the problem. I have new headers i could install if the problem lies there, if not what else could it be? any info will be appreciated. (mods:none, 1988 GXL N/A)

 

I'm installing a header this week

 

Clogged cat?

Go drive you car hard, at night and see if the cat is glowing when you're done.

 

ditto on the clogged cat.

 

I've got the same problem on my NA, but I have no cats(straight flow).I've read that if you don't have your heat shields in(which is my case) then that could be a cause of your problem. I think there is another issue missing here though!

 

Often, the heat shields "disappear" during maintenance/repair work on the car because well meaning (yet misguided) individuals believe they are "not needed". So that is the first thing I would check. There should be aluminium heat shields all the way down the exhaust tunnel under the car.

Failing that, a clogged cat or overrich mixture can cause excessive heat. Go for a spirited drive on the highway, then pull off and immediately check the cat and manifold. Glowing red? That would indicate a problem.

 

Yea the heat shields are still intact, havent had a chance to do some spirited driving because my master brake cylinder has a leak and the part i need is in california arriving here on Monday. THank you for the help