Exhaust System: Service and Repair

Exhaust System Replacement

Inspection Procedure

Inspect the exhaust pipes, the catalytic converter (if equipped), the muffler, and the tailpipe for the following conditions:

* Cracked joints
* Broken welds
* Corrosion damage
These conditions may result in a leaking exhaust system.

Inspect the clamps, the brackets, and the insulators for the following conditions:

* Cracks
* Stripped bolt threads
* Corroded bolt threads

Verify that the exhaust system (including the heat shield) does not exhibit the following conditions:

* Leaks
* Binding
* Grounding
* Excessive vibration

The above conditions may occur if any of the following components are loose or damaged:

* The flange bolts
* The heat shields
* The brackets
* The pipes

Inspect the exhaust system components and the alignment if any of these conditions exist. Align and replace the components as necessary.

Exhaust Components Removal

Caution: Always wear protective goggles and gloves when removing exhaust parts as falling rust and sharp edges from worn exhaust components could result in serious personal injury.

An accumulation of dirt and corrosion can make the removal of the exhaust components difficult. Use a penetrating oil on the threads in order to assist in removing the exhaust components.

Exhaust Components Installation

Important: Replace the exhaust system parts with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standard components. This action ensures that the vehicle operates as designed.


Important:
* Replace the tailpipe when the muffler is replaced.

* Use new seals and nuts when installing the exhaust pipe to the engine manifold.

Clean the engine manifold stud threads with a wire brush before installing the new nuts.


Ensure that the components are correctly aligned when installing a new exhaust pipe or a new muffler or tailpipe. Incorrectly aligned components may cause rattles and noise vibrations in the exhaust.

Use the following steps when aligning the exhaust system:

1. Leave all of the bolts and the nuts loose.
2. Properly align all of the components.
3. Tighten the bolts and the nut, working from the front to the rear.

Replace the following components, if the components are damaged, in order to maintain the exhaust system alignment:

* The exhaust system hangers
* The hanger brackets
* The clamps