An exhaust connection coupler and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. The coupler may include a bellows member, an interlock member disposed within the bellows member and an outer braid cover surrounding the bellows member. The braid cover is designed such that it provides resistance limiting axial growth of the coupler, so that the interlock member is not extended to an excessive length, while enabling maximized compression and angular flexibility. The outer braid cover may be constructed of intertwined bundles of wire filaments disposed at a specified angle from a central axis of the coupler. As assembled, the interlock member is at a nearly fully extended length when the bellows member is at an uncompressed and unextended length in order to maximize the amount in which the coupler may be compressed and/or flexed during installation and use.