What is a exhaust donut?

An exhaust donut, also known as an exhaust gasket or exhaust doughnut gasket, is a ring-shaped component used to seal the connection between two sections of an exhaust system, such as the exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe. It is typically made of a flexible material, such as graphite, metal, or ceramic, and is designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures while providing a tight seal to prevent the leakage of exhaust gases.

The primary purpose of an exhaust donut is to ensure a proper seal between the exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe, preventing exhaust leaks that can cause performance issues, reduced efficiency, and increased noise levels. It also helps to absorb vibrations from the engine and exhaust system, reducing the transmission of noise and vibrations into the vehicle's cabin.

Exhaust donuts are commonly used in automotive applications, particularly in older vehicles, and can be found in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit different exhaust system configurations. They are relatively easy to replace when necessary, and regular inspection and maintenance of exhaust donuts can help to prevent exhaust leaks and ensure optimal performance of the vehicle's exhaust system.