Exhaust Pipe: Service and Repair

Exhaust Manifold Pipe Replacement (3.5L (L66))

Removal Procedure

1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.




2. Remove the oil pan bracket (2) and bolts (1, 3).




3. Remove the exhaust pipe flange to the catalytic converter nuts (3).
4. Remove the exhaust pipe to mid muffler pipe nuts.
5. Remove the front exhaust pipe.
6. Fully remove and discard the used gaskets.

Installation Procedure

Notice: Excessive flexing of the exhaust pipe may damage the flex coupling. Limit flexing to 12 degrees.




1. Position pipe into vehicle, and install new gaskets onto converter studs.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice.

2. Assemble exhaust pipe to converters, install new nuts and tighten.

Tighten the nuts to 18 N.m (13 lb ft).

3. Install the new gasket (1) onto the exhaust pipe rear flange.




4. Assemble the front pipe to rear pipe, install the nuts and tighten.

Tighten the front pipe-to-rear pipe nuts to 30 N.m (22 lb ft).




5. Install the oil pan bracket (2) and bolts (1, 3) and tighten.

Tighten the bolts to 20 N.m (14 lb ft).

6. Lower the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
7. Start the engine and check for exhaust leaks.