04/12/2008
When your car's exhaust system develops a leak, it can be a frustrating and potentially costly issue. The tell-tale signs of an exhaust leak often include a loud roaring or puffing sound, a noticeable loss of power, and sometimes a smell of exhaust fumes inside the cabin. While a full exhaust replacement can be expensive, many motorists opt for temporary, DIY solutions to get them through until a more permanent repair can be made. One of the most popular and widely available products for this purpose is known as Gun Gum.
This article will delve into the specifics of Gun Gum, focusing on its cost in the UK, how it works, its effectiveness, and what you need to know if you're considering using it for your vehicle's exhaust woes.
What is Gun Gum?
Gun Gum is a brand of exhaust repair putty or paste. It's essentially a heat-resistant, fibreglass-reinforced compound that you mould around a damaged area of your exhaust system, such as a hole or a crack. Once applied and cured, it forms a hard, durable seal that can, in many cases, temporarily restore the integrity of the exhaust pipe and reduce noise. It's designed to withstand the high temperatures and vibrations typical of an exhaust system.
How Does Gun Gum Work?
The application process for Gun Gum is relatively straightforward, making it an attractive option for those who aren't mechanics by trade. The general steps involve:
- Cleaning the Area: Thoroughly clean the damaged section of the exhaust. Remove any rust, dirt, and loose material. A wire brush is often recommended for this.
- Applying the Paste: Knead the Gun Gum paste until it's pliable. Apply it generously around and over the hole or crack, ensuring it adheres well to the metal.
- Sealing with Bandage (Optional but Recommended): Many Gun Gum kits also include a fibreglass bandage or tape. This is wrapped tightly around the freshly applied paste to provide extra support and create a stronger bond.
- Curing: The heat from the exhaust system as it runs is what cures the Gun Gum. It's usually recommended to run the engine for a short period to heat the exhaust, then let it cool, and then run it again for a longer duration to ensure a proper cure.
The chemical reaction, combined with the fibreglass reinforcement, creates a solid, sealed repair. The key is to ensure a complete seal and that the paste is applied to clean, sound metal.
How Much Does Gun Gum Cost in the UK?
The pricing of Gun Gum in the UK can vary slightly depending on the retailer and whether you're purchasing a basic kit or one that includes additional accessories like the bandage. However, as a general guide:
| Product Type | Typical Price Range (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Gun Gum Paste (e.g., Holts Gun Gum) | £5 - £10 | Usually sufficient for a small hole or crack. |
| Gun Gum Repair Kit (with bandage) | £8 - £15 | Includes paste and fibreglass bandage for a more robust repair. |
| Larger/Heavy Duty Formulations | £10 - £20 | May be available for more significant damage, though less common. |
You can typically find Gun Gum at most major automotive parts retailers, including Halfords, Euro Car Parts, and online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. The affordability of Gun Gum makes it a very attractive option for emergency repairs.
Is Gun Gum Effective?
The effectiveness of Gun Gum is a topic of much discussion among car owners. When used correctly on a small leak or a minor crack in a relatively low-stress area of the exhaust system, it can be surprisingly effective. It can significantly reduce or eliminate the noise associated with the leak and prevent exhaust gases from entering the cabin.
However, it's crucial to understand its limitations:
- Temporary Fix: Gun Gum is almost universally considered a temporary repair. While some users report it lasting for months, it's not a permanent solution. The constant vibrations and heat cycles of an exhaust system will eventually degrade the compound.
- Not for Large Holes: It is not designed to bridge large holes or repair completely rusted-out sections of the exhaust. For such damage, a professional repair or replacement is necessary.
- Location Matters: It tends to be more effective on the exhaust pipe itself rather than on mufflers or catalytic converters, which can experience different stress and heat patterns.
- Proper Application: Success is heavily dependent on thorough preparation and correct application. If the area isn't clean or the paste isn't applied correctly, it's unlikely to hold.
For a quick fix to silence a noisy exhaust until you can get to a garage, Gun Gum can be a lifesaver. But it's wise not to rely on it for long-term structural integrity.
Alternatives to Gun Gum
While Gun Gum is popular, there are other DIY exhaust repair options available:
Exhaust Repair Tape/Wrap: Similar to Gun Gum in principle, this involves wrapping a fibreglass tape impregnated with a heat-resistant resin around the damaged area. It can be effective for pipes and bends.
Exhaust Repair Putty (other brands): Various other brands offer similar exhaust repair putties and pastes, often with comparable pricing and effectiveness to Gun Gum.
Exhaust Cement: This is a more mortar-like substance used primarily for sealing small joints and gaps between exhaust components. It's less about bridging holes and more about sealing connections.
Welding: For a permanent and robust repair, welding is the professional standard. This involves physically joining the metal components of the exhaust system.
Exhaust Clamp: A metal clamp can sometimes be used to secure a patch or even a section of pipe over a damaged area, often used in conjunction with heat-resistant sealant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Will Gun Gum stop my exhaust from blowing?
A: Yes, if applied correctly to a small hole or crack, Gun Gum can effectively stop an exhaust leak or 'blow'.
Q2: How long does Gun Gum last?
A: The lifespan of a Gun Gum repair is highly variable. It can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the damage, the location of the repair, and driving conditions. It is generally considered a temporary solution.
Q3: Can I use Gun Gum on a rusty exhaust?
A: It's best to apply Gun Gum to clean, solid metal. If the exhaust is heavily rusted, the Gun Gum may not adhere properly, and the rust itself indicates a weakened structure that needs more than a patch.
Q4: Is Gun Gum safe to use?
A: Gun Gum is designed for exhaust repair and is safe when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Always ensure good ventilation when working with chemicals and wear appropriate safety gear like gloves and eye protection.
Q5: What's the difference between Gun Gum and exhaust tape?
A: Gun Gum is a paste that you mould into shape, while exhaust tape is a pre-formed fibreglass bandage soaked in resin that you wrap around the leak.
Conclusion
For motorists in the UK looking for an inexpensive and accessible way to tackle a minor exhaust leak, Gun Gum presents a viable, albeit temporary, solution. With costs typically ranging from £5 to £15, it's a budget-friendly option. Its ease of application makes it a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. However, it's essential to manage expectations; Gun Gum is best suited for small holes and cracks and should be viewed as a stop-gap measure rather than a permanent fix. For significant damage or long-term reliability, professional repair or replacement remains the most effective route.
If you want to read more articles similar to Gun Gum: Fixes & Costs in the UK, you can visit the Repair category.