The weight on my exhaust fell off ?

[shortrun]

This weight that is attached to the exhaust pipe, near the rear wheels, fell off. I'd guess it weights about 3 pounds.

I don't think there is a hole in the exhaust pipe, at least I don't hear it yet.
What's this weight for? Can I drive without it?

Thanks

2000 Avalon with 130 000 KM.

[Qslim]

That thing is there to absorb vibration and reduce noise. Doesn't have anything to do with gas flow.

[shortrun]

Thanks Qslim
I was wondering if this was a counter balance, taking stress off the exhaust hangers and the interconnecting flanges between the muffler and pipes of the exhaust system. Without the weight the whole thing is going to bust apart $$$$$$$.

When the muffler system is replaced do they reinstall the weight?

Happy holidays to those who partake.