Caution: Wear protective goggles and gloves in order to avoid serious personal injury when removing exhaust parts.

An accumulation of dirt and corrosion may make removing exhaust components difficult. A penetrating oil, used on the threads of U-bolts, may assist in the removal of these components.

Important: Replacement of exhaust system parts must be OEM standard to ensure that the vehicle operates as designed.

Check for proper alignment when installing a new exhaust pipe, exhaust muffler, or tail pipe, on any model. Misaligned parts can cause rattles and noise vibrations in the exhaust system. When aligning the system, leave all nuts and bolts loose, until all parts are aligned. After properly aligning the system, tighten the nuts and bolts, working from the front of the vehicle towards the rear. Replace all damaged exhaust system hanger brackets, hanger bracket insulators, and clamps, in order to maintain the exhaust system alignment.

Important: 

1. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.5L or Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement in Engine Controls - 3.8L when servicing the exhaust system requires removing and replacing the oxygen sensors.
2. Apply exhaust system sealer to slip joints before assembling.
3. Always use new nuts when installing the exhaust pipe to the exhaust manifold.
4. Before installing the new nuts, clean the exhaust manifold stud threads with a wire brush.