Exhaust Buildup Question

[79NJFiat]

I actually have 3 questions from under my engine I'm trying to figure out and would like some additional input on...I'm new to the FIAT world and am learning as I go. The questions correspond with the following 3 pictures...Sorry about the picture quality as its from my iphone and thanks to all in advance for any help.

1) After reading the clicking sound thread about it possibly being an exhaust leak, I decided to pull off the heat shield on my exhaust just to give it a look, as I have a clicking sound that gets progressively louder and I thought it could possibly be the exhaust. I found this white buildup between the exhaust header and the downpipe. Seems to me that would indicate a leak, no? Any thoughts?



2) The opening under the engine on the exhaust manifold side seems quite large (as in there is nothing there!) and there are two bolts at the bottom of the engine with nothing on them. I realize the smog system was removed, but am I missing anything more important than that?



3) Finally, I have this foot of downward hose coming through the firewall on the exhaust side that goes nowhere. Again, is this just part of the smog system that was removed? Should I plug this line or should it be connected somewhere?

[So Cal Mark]

I don't see any emission equipment that has been removed from your exhaust manifold. That hose is from the drain in the cowl. Why the PO did that is anyones' guess but I surmise he wanted to direct water away from the exhaust. If you had a leak at the flange, it would be black. White usually indicates water was on that area

[kmead]

The two studs on the lower front block area are the mounts used on the older cars for the alternator. Since you presumably still have an alternator on the other side, nothing is missing. The black crud may be some burnt oil from leaking valve cover gaskets or similar minor leaks on the cam towers.