how to identify the broken parts in exhaust system?

Dear All:

I have a 98 accord Ex. Just a couple of days ago the exhaust system started to rattle. I crawled under the the car and found that the exhaust pipes were pretty rusted. However I couldn't decide which parts of exhaust system should be replaced: the muffler, exhaust pipes, or the catalytic converter? Is there any tips to identify the broken parts?

Thanks a lot.
Kun

Do you need help working what parts are the muffler, catalytic converter etc?

Or do you need help figuring out which parts are rusted trough and need replacing?

The heat shields on Hondas like to buzz and rattle a lot too. Tap around on them and see if one makes the sound you hear. If that's what it is, I usually get an oversized worm screw clamp (like a huge hose clamp) wrap it around the noisy shield and tighten up, stops the noise.

Do you need help working what parts are the muffler, catalytic converter etc?

Or do you need help figuring out which parts are rusted trough and need replacing?

Thanks for reply. I need help to figuring which parts are rusted.

Thanks for reply. I need help to figuring which parts are rusted.

No need now. I took it to a garage and they lifted it off. The pipe connected to the catalytic converter is broken. So now it is obvious which part should be replaced. All things left is to get those rusted bolts off. :jerking:

Thanks