Muffler: Service and Repair

Muffler Replacement

Removal Procedure

Caution: Refer to Exhaust Service Caution.

Caution: Refer to Protective Goggles and Glove Caution.

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.





Important: Use care not to over extend the rear brake hose.

2. Complete the following in order to gain clearance to remove the muffler:
1. Remove the lower shock absorber nuts (9) and bolts (8).
2. Remove the right rear leaf spring nut (2) and bolt (1).
3. Wedge a block of wood (5) between the frame (4) and the rear axle (6).




3. Remove the nuts securing the muffler to the catalytic converter.





Important: Do not use oil base lubricants.

4. Apply a soapy solution to the exhaust pipe hanger rods (3) in order to ease the removal of the exhaust hangers (1).
5. Pry the exhaust hangers (1) free from the exhaust pipe hanger rods (3).
6. Complete the following in order to remove the muffler from the vehicle:
1. Slide the muffler rearward from the catalytic converter.
2. Rotate the muffler 90 degrees counterclockwise from the rear.
3. Carefully remove the muffler rearward from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

1. Complete the following in order to install the muffler to the vehicle:
1. With the muffler turned 90 degrees counterclockwise from the rear, carefully insert the muffler over the rear axle until the flange is near the catalytic converter.
2. Rotate the muffler clockwise 90 degrees to the installed position.
3. Slide the muffler forward into position, aligning the studs with the rear of the catalytic converter.





Important: Do not use oil base lubricants.

2. Apply a soapy solution to the following in order to ease the installation of the hangers (1):
* The inner diameter of the exhaust pipe hanger (1)
* The exhaust pipe hanger rod (3)
3. Press the exhaust pipe hangers (1) over the exhaust pipe hanger rods (3).





Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice.

4. Install the nuts securing the muffler to the catalytic converter.
1. Tighten the muffler nuts by hand until each contacts the metal flange.
2. Tighten the muffler nuts to 45 N.m (33 lb ft).




5. Remove the block of wood (5) from between the frame (4) and rear axle (6).
6. Install the right rear leaf spring bolt (1) and nut (2).

Tighten the leaf spring bolt and nut to 85 N.m (63 lb ft).

7. Install the lower shock absorber bolts (8) and nuts (9).

Tighten the lower shock absorber bolts and nuts to 95 N.m (70 lb ft).

8. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks and underbody contact.
9. Lower the vehicle.