I only do all the brackets for the right side/muffler support.
Poor design there and those need all the help they can get

on the left ...
the one that goes straight back to the Y pipe/cat flange .....
I like that one on.
the one from the middle of the Y pipe ...
I have never found any reason to think they do anything useuful.
I might leave one on if it's there, but don't bother to install one of those
nomrally.
My exhaust systems last just perfectly , I also paint them with high temp
exhaust paint and they'll stay half decent for a year that way.

scott
www.turbovans.com
----- Original Message -----
From: "william greenamyer" <wgreenamyer@CISO.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, September 19, 2010 7:04 AM
Subject: Exhaust system brackets on 84GL 4 speed

> Got a couple more questions for those with more knowledge on the van than
> I
> have.
>
> There are a lot of exhaust system brackets and supports which attach to
> the
> engine on this van.  Normally I put them all on.  Many of the mechanics
> who
> have worked on the van (including a VW person) usually leave them off.  I
> see the reasoning for the brackets (keep the exhaust pipes from flexing
> differently from the engine movement) but how many are really needed?  It
> looks like most of the brackets actually are to relieve stress (flexing)
> on
> the Y-pipe section of the exhaust system.  Is this correct?
>
> William