{"id":6138,"date":"2026-07-05T20:46:21","date_gmt":"2026-07-06T03:46:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/?p=6138"},"modified":"2026-07-05T20:48:34","modified_gmt":"2026-07-06T03:48:34","slug":"diy-sprinter-exhaust-repair-welding-a-rusted-break-with-a-custom-sleeve","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/2026\/07\/diy-sprinter-exhaust-repair-welding-a-rusted-break-with-a-custom-sleeve\/","title":{"rendered":"DIY Sprinter Exhaust Repair: Welding a Rusted Break with a Custom Sleeve"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this post, I walk you through how I repaired my rusted-through exhaust pipe on DAPHNE, my 2016 Sprinter 4&#215;4 van. It&#8217;s definitely a DIY hack and is not meant as an endorsement or recommendation &#8211; when in doubt, utilize the skills of a trained auto mechanic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"DIY Sprinter Exhaust Repair: Welding a Rusted Break with a Custom Sleeve\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/phb992a2C8s?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">TLDR<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rusted-through Sprinter exhaust pipe fixed by measuring the actual 70 mm size, modifying a slightly oversized 3&#8243; sleeve (cut + relief slots), then clamping, sealing, and welding it in place\u2014resulting in a solid, low-cost repair without replacing the full exhaust section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key Equipment Used in the video:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Angle Grinder (with cut-off wheel, wire brush, 80-grit flap wheel)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Welder (wire-feed MIG)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wrenches and Ratchets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Common hand tools<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Key Parts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Steel Exhaust Sleeve (3&#8243;, Napa Part #EXH-41976)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Steel Exhaust Clamps (Napa Part # BK7335772)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exhaust Seal (Used: VersaChem Exhaust System Joint Sealer)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thread Locker<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The failure showed up in the least dramatic way possible\u2014sitting in the driveway. A section of the exhaust had rusted through at a seam and separated completely. Fortunately, it didn\u2019t happen on the road, but it still needed immediate attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rather than replacing the entire rear exhaust section, I opted for a practical repair using a sleeve, welding, and sealant. This approach trades a bit of perfection for speed and cost, but I feel that it\u2019s solid enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding the Problem<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The break occurred at a seam in the exhaust pipe where corrosion had fully eaten through the metal. The rear section was effectively hanging and no longer structurally connected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Exhaust systems live a hard life\u2014heat cycles, moisture, road grime\u2014and they\u2019re ultimately wear items. This failure was a pretty typical end-of-life scenario.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6139\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6139\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-22.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"523\" data-id=\"6161\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-22.png?resize=800%2C523&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6161\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-22.png?resize=1024%2C670&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-22.png?resize=300%2C196&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-22.png?resize=768%2C503&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-22.png?w=1467&amp;ssl=1 1467w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-23.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6162\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-23.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6162\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-23.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-23.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-23.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-23.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-23.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-23.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Removal and Initial Assessment<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The rear exhaust section was surprisingly easy to remove. It was hanging on a slip-style joint, so I was able to slide it free and pull it out from under the van.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-1.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-1.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6140\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-1.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-1.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-1.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-1.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-1.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-1.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once removed, the damage was clear: significant rust at the joint, but the surrounding pipe was still usable. That made it a good candidate for a sleeve repair instead of full replacement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sizing and Fitment Challenges<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Initially, the internet (why do I trust the INTERNET??) the exhaust was a standard 3-inch pipe and picked up a 3-inch extension. That was wrong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Actual measurements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Outer diameter: 70 mm<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inner diameter: ~67 mm<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped is-style-rectangular wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6142\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-3.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6142\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-3.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-3.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-3.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-3.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-3.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-3.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-4.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6143\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-4.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6143\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-4.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-4.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-4.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-4.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-4.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-4.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-19.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"584\" data-id=\"6158\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-19.png?resize=800%2C584&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6158\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-19.png?resize=1024%2C747&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-19.png?resize=300%2C219&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-19.png?resize=768%2C560&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-19.png?w=1481&amp;ssl=1 1481w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This put it in an awkward in-between size\u2014close to 3 inches, but not quite. The off-the-shelf part was slightly oversized, which meant it wouldn\u2019t clamp down tightly without modification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lesson learned: always measure the actual pipe &#8211; of course the Sprinter uses metric sizing. (obvi)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Preparing the Repair Sleeve<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-18.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"467\" data-id=\"6157\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-18.png?resize=800%2C467&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6157\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-18.png?w=956&amp;ssl=1 956w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-18.png?resize=300%2C175&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-18.png?resize=768%2C448&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-2.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6141\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-2.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6141\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-2.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-2.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-2.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-2.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-2.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-2.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-5.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6144\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-5.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-5.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-5.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-5.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-5.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-5.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-5.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 3-inch extension still worked as a starting point. I modified it to fit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cut off the bell end to create a straight sleeve<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cut several relief slots along the pipe so it could compress slightly<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cleaned all rust and debris from both the sleeve and the exhaust pipe<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Deburred edges with a grinder for better fitment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This turned a generic part into a semi-custom sleeve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Test Fit and Clamping Strategy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Initial attempts with standard hose clamps weren\u2019t strong enough to compress the sleeve onto the pipe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Switching to proper exhaust clamps made a big difference. These provided enough force to close the gap created by the slightly oversized sleeve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The relief cuts allowed the sleeve to shrink down just enough to match the 70 mm pipe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-6.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6145\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-6.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6145\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-6.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-6.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-6.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-6.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-6.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-6.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-8.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6147\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-8.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6147\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-8.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-8.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-8.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-8.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-8.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-8.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-20.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6159\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-20.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6159\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-20.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-20.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-20.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-20.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-20.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-20.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Welding and Sealing the Sleeve<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To ensure a long-lasting repair, I combined mechanical and chemical sealing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Applied exhaust sealant inside the sleeve before assembly<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clamped the sleeve tightly in place<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Welded around the outer seams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Welded the relief cuts closed to eliminate gaps<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The sealant helps fill any micro-gaps and prevent moisture intrusion, while the welds provide structural strength.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-7.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6146\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-7.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6146\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-7.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-7.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-7.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-7.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-7.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-7.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-9.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6148\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-9.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6148\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-9.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-9.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-9.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-9.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-9.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-9.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-21.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"605\" data-id=\"6160\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-21.png?resize=800%2C605&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6160\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-21.png?resize=1024%2C774&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-21.png?resize=300%2C227&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-21.png?resize=768%2C580&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-21.png?w=1182&amp;ssl=1 1182w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reinstallation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the sleeve fully prepped, it went back under the van:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Cleaned the mating surfaces on the existing exhaust<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Applied another layer of sealant<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Slid the sleeve into place with about 2\u20133 inches of overlap on each side<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tightened exhaust clamps securely<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Applied thread locker to clamp hardware to prevent loosening<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This combination locks everything in place both mechanically and chemically.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-12.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6151\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-12.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6151\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-12.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-12.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-12.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-12.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-12.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-12.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-13.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6152\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-13.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6152\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-13.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-13.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-13.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-13.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-13.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-13.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-14.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" data-id=\"6153\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-14.png?resize=800%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6153\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-14.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-14.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-14.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-14.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-14.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-14.png?w=1600&amp;ssl=1 1600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Finishing Touches<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After welding, I cleaned up the weld areas slightly with a grinder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I also applied high-heat Rust-Oleum paint over the exposed metal and welds. There\u2019s mixed opinion on whether this actually extends exhaust life, but it does provide some initial corrosion resistance\u2014especially where the factory coating was removed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-15.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"665\" data-id=\"6154\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-15.png?resize=800%2C665&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6154\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-15.png?resize=1024%2C851&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-15.png?resize=300%2C249&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-15.png?resize=768%2C639&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-15.png?w=1240&amp;ssl=1 1240w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-17.png?ssl=1\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"381\" data-id=\"6156\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-17.png?resize=800%2C381&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6156\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-17.png?resize=1024%2C488&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-17.png?resize=300%2C143&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-17.png?resize=768%2C366&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-17.png?resize=1536%2C732&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-17.png?w=1637&amp;ssl=1 1637w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Results and Performance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The final result is a solid, tight repair with no visible gaps or movement. The exhaust is properly supported again, and the connection feels robust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I think this type of repair should hold up well for a while, though like any exhaust component, it will eventually be subject to the same rust cycle. I&#8217;ll let you know when that happens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> I walk you through how I repaired my rusted-through exhaust pipe on DAPHNE, my 2016 Sprinter 4&#215;4 van. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":6163,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"colormag_page_container_layout":"default_layout","colormag_page_sidebar_layout":"default_layout","_editorskit_title_hidden":false,"_editorskit_reading_time":0,"_editorskit_is_block_options_detached":false,"_editorskit_block_options_position":"{}","_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[80],"tags":[83,88,84,97],"class_list":["post-6138","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-sprinter","tag-sprinter","tag-travelswithdaphne","tag-van","tag-wrenching"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/image-24.png?fit=1920%2C1080&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6138","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6138"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6138\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6163"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6138"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6138"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pointsunknown.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6138"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}