How to Install an Auto Exhaust Kits
If you are a vehicle owner who is looking for different ways to customize your vehicle, one option is to change your stock exhaust. An aftermarket exhaust kit is generally straighter than the stock model, which allows the exhaust to be released more efficiently. Generally, a skilled mechanic should only perform this job; however, with the proper tools and skills, you may be able to complete it without a professional.
What You'll Need:
- Jack or hydraulic lift
- Exhaust kit
- Welding torch
- Bolt cutters
- Socket wrenches
- Decide which kind of exhaust kit you want and determine whether or not it will fit your vehicle. Most stock exhaust systems will bend around other components of the car, and the aftermarket kit will need to fit those parameters or be modified so that it will.
- Raise the vehicle using a hydraulic lift or a jack. You'll need to be able to see the exhaust system easily and work comfortably around it.
- Detach the old exhaust system one piece at a time, beginning with the tailpipe and working backwards toward the catalytic converter. Some of the pieces may need to be removed with bolt cutters or a wrench, while other pieces may require a welding torch. Take extra care not to damage any other components of the vehicle while you are working.
- Look out for the emissions control sensor that is located near the catalytic converter. This piece should not be damaged and needs to be functioning properly for the exhaust system to be considered legal.
- Install a new catalytic converter and check the connection so that it will easily fit the remaining parts of the exhaust. You'll need to weld it into place and fit it snugly within the designated space. You may be able to skip this step if the exhaust kit does not include a catalytic converter.
- Attach the exhaust tubing from the catalytic converter on to the new muffler and position it into place. You may need to adjust it in order for it to properly fit the dimensions of your vehicle.
- Fit the new muffler into the proper place and look over it to ensure that is aligned correctly with the rest of the exhaust kit. If so, you can go ahead and weld it into place.
- Connect the pipe from the muffler to the exhaust pipe and make sure that it is aligned correctly as well. You can bolt it into place after you are satisfied with the position of it.
- Attach the exhaust pipe and align it with each of the remaining parts of the kit and the rear bumper, if necessary. Weld everything in place or you can use bolts that are the appropriate size of your vehicle.
- Power off the engine and look over the exhaust kit to ensure that there are no leaks and that everything is working properly.