Exhaust System Neutralizing

 WARNING: Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, which is harmful to health and potentially lethal. Repair exhaust system leaks immediately. Never operate the engine in an enclosed area. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

 WARNING: Exhaust system components are hot. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

NOTE: Neutralize the exhaust system to relieve strain on mounts which can be sufficiently bound up to transmit vibration as if grounded.

1.  CAUTION: Make sure the system is warmed up to normal operating temperature, as thermal expansion can be the cause of a strain problem.

   Raise and support the vehicle. For additional information, refer to Section 100-02.

2. Loosen all exhaust hanger attachments and reposition the hangers until they hang free and straight.

3. Loosen all exhaust flange joints.

4. Place a stand to support the muffler parallel to the vehicle frame with the muffler pipe bracket free of stress.

5. Tighten the muffler connection.

6. Tighten all the exhaust hanger clamps and flanges (tighten the exhaust manifold flange joint last).
   • Verify there is adequate clearance to prevent grounding at any point in the system. Make sure that the catalytic converter and heat shield do not contact the frame rails.
   • After neutralization, the rubber in the exhaust hangers should show some flexibility when movement is applied to the exhaust system.
   • With the exhaust system installed securely and cooled, the rear hanger should be angled forward.

7. Lower the vehicle.

8. Test the exhaust system for normal operation.