Vehicle: 1998 Nissan Quest // VIN: 4n2zn1118wd819357

Despite the age and mileage the vehicle has been a silent runner for years. Only recently has it been loud on startup and driving. I looked beneath the car, near the front and noticed the intermediate exhaust pipe venting exhaust (see within illustration, labelled # 751-881). The smoke was venting from the braided area in the photo.

Was wondering if it can be repaired easily or must i order an entire pipe replacement such as this (https://amzn.to/2SkPVO8) and have the mechanic install. I did notice this smaller piece (https://amzn.to/2QRp1Rd) but am unsure how to go about removing the old / installing the new -- looks like some serious welding.

Thanks

Super-simple. Don't order anything.

Hit up a local muffler shop. They should have flex pipe sections in stock. That's a super-easy cut-and-weld. I'd guess $150 at most.

This is likely NOT a super easy weld, as the pipes are badly rusted by now, and they may not be able to weld to them at all.

Possibly.

I've welded on some pretty pitted metal (after lots of cleanup and grinding). Muffler shops are likely used to it... if it's too far gone, the OP won't have a choice but to replace the system anyway.