How to install an exhaust system in your car

Your car's exhaust system plays several very important roles in keeping it running efficiently and quietly. It helps move the exhaust gases created by the engine from the front of the car to the back, where they…

Your car's exhaust system plays several very important roles in keeping it running efficiently and quietly. It helps move the exhaust gases created by the engine from the front of the car to the back, where they are expelled. Certain exhaust system components, such as the resonator and muffler, also help muffle engine sound. Without an exhaust system, every car would sound as loud as a racing car.

If you're looking to install a new exhaust system, there's a good chance you either want to upgrade your car's exhaust system to improve sound and performance, or perhaps your car's existing exhaust system is old and rusty and no longer does its job effectively. . With the right tools, parts, and patience, you can complete the exhaust system installation yourself. This job is quite easy if you use exactly the right spare parts.

If you're looking for some extra horsepower and a deeper raspy sound, then this will be a fun upgrade that might spark curiosity once the install is complete.

Part 1 of 2: How the exhaust system works

The entire exhaust system consists of five main components.

• Functions: This article will discuss the replacement of the exhaust system with a rear catalyst.

Part 2 of 2: Exhaust system installation

Necessary materials

• 6 pointed heads - from 10 mm to 19 mm.
• Paul Jack
• Gaskets - new and required quantity for the car
• Gloves
• Equipment - new bolts and nuts for assembling a new exhaust.
• Penetrating Oil (best to use PB Blaster)
• ratchet
• Bolt-on exhaust system replacement
• Exhaust rubber mounts are new.
• Protective glasses

• Safety jack stands x 4

• Functions: Purchasing an exhaust system replacement kit usually includes new hardware, gaskets, and suspensions. Be sure to purchase them separately if that's not the case.

Step 1: Buy an exhaust. It is recommended that you purchase a bolt-on exhaust pipe for your vehicle. You can look for the best deals for either a factory replacement or a smooth exhaust.

• FunctionsA: Most parts can be purchased from your local parts store, online, your local exhaust store, or your automaker's dealer.

• FunctionsA: Always check your local aftermarket installation laws to make sure it's legal for road use or something. A good place to check is your state's Automotive Repair Bureau.

Step 2: Park on a level surface. Make sure the vehicle is on level ground and turned off.

Step 3: Raise the car. Raise the vehicle safely off the ground using a floor jack and jack stands. Position all four jack points under the vehicle.

Step 4: Spray the Equipment. Spray generously on all parts (nuts and bolts) of the PB Blaster and let it soak in for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Remove the muffler. Start at the rear of the car and first remove the muffler using an appropriately sized hex socket and a ratchet.

There should be two bolts that need to be removed from the muffler. After the equipment is removed, remove the muffler from the rubber holders and remove it completely from the vehicle.

Set it aside. If your vehicle is equipped with two mufflers, repeat the process for the second muffler.

• Functions: Make sure you are not currently using 12-point sockets. They can cause nuts and bolts to round off, making them difficult to remove.

• Functions: Spraying WD40 on the rubber hangers will help slip off and put on the exhaust system components

Step 6: Disconnect the catalytic converter. Remove the bolted middle section of the exhaust pipe from the catalytic converter.

• The flange (outer edge) connected to the end of the catalytic converter may have two or three bolts that must be removed. After the equipment has been removed, remove the piping from the rubber hangers and set it aside.

Step 7: Remove the rubber hangers. Remove the old rubber suspensions from the car and replace them with new ones.

Step 8: Put on new rubber hangers.. Slide the new middle frame over the new rubber hangers.

Step 9: Slide the new muffler over the new rubber bushings..

Step 10: Install a new gasket. Install a new gasket between the catalytic converter and the new exhaust pipe. Use new hardware to fasten this flange together. Tighten by hand.

Step 11: Attach the flange. Locate the flange connecting the middle pipe to the muffler. Install a new gasket and secure the flange with new fasteners by hand.

Step 12: Tighten the bolts. Fine-tuning the placement of the exhaust system. Tighten the bolts on each flange and make sure the exhaust hangs freely on the rubber hangers.

Make sure it is not pressed against the vehicle frame, gas tank, or heat shields. Bolts should be tightened ¼ to ½ turn after tightening.

• Functions: With the exhaust pipe hanging and the equipment loose, you may need to twist, shake or rotate the pipes to the desired position. Be patient with this.

Step 13: Check Your Work. While the car is still in the air, start it up and listen to the new exhaust. Check each flange for any signs of exhaust escaping. You should also be able to hear the leak, if any.

• A warning: Feel, but do not touch, the exhaust air exiting each flange. Be careful when doing this as the exhaust gas temperature gets higher the longer the vehicle is left on.

Step 14: Get the car back on the ground. After making sure there are no leaks, turn off the car. Using a jack, remove the safety jack stands and lower the vehicle back to the ground.

Take the car for a test drive.

Whether you replaced your exhaust due to damage or decide to upgrade it for better performance, remember to always use caution when driving on driveways, speed bumps, and dips. The exhaust pipe is under the car and can be damaged if you drive too fast into the road. If you live in areas that get snow, be sure to wash your undercarriage weekly during these winter months to prevent rusting of the exhaust system and other exposed components underneath the vehicle.

If you are not comfortable replacing your vehicle's exhaust system yourself, ask a professional mechanic, such as one from AvtoTachki, to help you replace suspensions, a manifold gasket, or a catalytic converter. Our mobile mechanics will come to your home or office to inspect or repair your vehicle at a convenient time for you.