Exhaust Leaks
 

I just picked up a 2004 Ford Mustang v6 that already had an aftermarket dual pipe catback exhaust on it. The driver side exhaust header is cracked, and where the pipes meet in several places on the aftermarket exhaust it is leaking and is rusted over. I'm on a budget, so I'm replacing the manifold with another OEM one. I just took off part of the exhaust, and need advice on what the best repair would be. I don't know if I could just sand down the rust. The leaks are right in between the pipes:
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/mustang...f703358382.jpg
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/mustang...9b00eb6dd6.jpg
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/mustang...6c0e683ad0.jpg

When you say leaks are "right in between the pipes" you mean at the joints where the two pipes meet? You can sand/grind the the loose stuff off to get a smoother surface. Just don't go overboard. You can then use some high temp exhaust pipe repair putty to fully smooth out the uneven surfaces, then sandpaper the ends to smooth it out before reattaching the pipe. Think of the exhaust pipe repair putty to be something like JB weld but for higher temps. It won't hold forever but you can at least start saving up for a new exhaust system..

https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C...30.sFJJ4mdxQb8

Alright, I'll try that. Do you think I could use a high temp paint to protect from future rust?

For anyone wondering, I replaced the driver side exhaust manifold, sanded and painted the midpipe and back with high temp paint, and replaced all of the hardware. Works great, no more leaks.