corrosion of header and exhaust brackets

[gokawa]

I just purchased a new 2005 V6 Tundra. I noticed that the headers and the brackets that support the exhaust system are corroded. I was concerned that perhaps this truck may have been flooded or exposed to a lot of salt air. The salesperson said that this is normal since these parts are made using unpainted and uncoated cast iron. I just wanted to check with other owners to verify that this is true.

[MEvang]

I don't know about Honolulu but here in the "Rust Belt" it only takes one bad winter to get things coated with surface rust.
These exhaust system are made from a low grade stainless steel. They will surface rust very quickly depending on the environment. This is not anything to worry about.
I've been out of the muffler shop business for about 4 year but still keep in contact with friend there, they are not seeing any Tundra coming in for exhaust systems yet and these trucks have been around for a while.
I will add that the grade of stainless can change from year to year and early model may not ever have a problem and then one year might. Example I still own a 85 Caravan and it has the original SS exhaust. These exhaust were not know for lasting this long especially the years after this which went through exhaust systems rather quickly.
Toyota SS exhaust systems have a history of breaking at the flanges. Usually you will see a pipe rust through right at the flange weld and break here.
Keep a close eye on the supports or hanger brackets, if these break have them repaired right away, this will definitely make the system last longer.
I don't believe there are any cast iron parts, the manifolds should be stainless also. It is normal for these to get a brown fussy look.
Mike

[gokawa]

Mike,

Thanks for the information. Very helpful to know that this is "normal" and to be expected. I will keep a close eye on this as you suggest.