Exhaust System: Service and Repair

Exhaust System Replacement (RPO L26/3.8L)

Removal Procedure
Caution: Refer to Exhaust Service Caution.
Caution: Refer to Protective Goggles and Gloves Caution.




1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (Service and Repair).
2. Remove the muffler to catalytic converter nuts.
3. Suitably support the exhaust system.




4. Remove the center exhaust hanger to the rear suspension support bracket bolts.




5. Remove the rear exhaust hanger bracket to rear compartment rail bolt.
6. With the aid of an assistant, lower and remove the exhaust system.
7. Remove and discard the catalytic converter to muffler gasket.




8. Remove the rear exhaust hanger to exhaust hanger bracket nut.
9. Remove the rear exhaust hanger bracket from the rear exhaust hanger.

Installation Procedure




1. Install the rear exhaust hanger bracket to the rear exhaust hanger.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice (Fastener Notice).

2. Install the rear exhaust hanger to exhaust hanger bracket nut.

Tighten the nut to 30 N.m (22 lb ft).





Notice: Refer to Exhaust System Inspection Notice.

3. Install a NEW catalytic converter to muffler gasket over the catalytic converter studs.

Notice: Refer to Flex Decoupler Notice.

4. With the aid of an assistant, raise and install the exhaust system.
5. Install the muffler to catalytic converter nuts until snug.
6. Install the rear exhaust hanger bracket to rear compartment rail bolt.

Tighten the bolt to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).




7. Install the center exhaust hangers to rear suspension support bracket bolts.

Tighten the bolts to 30 N.m (22 lb ft).




8. Tighten the muffler to catalytic converter nuts previously installed in step 5.

Tighten the nuts to 25 N.m (18 lb ft).

9. Lower the vehicle.