How to Upgrade a Truck's Exhaust System
A truck's exhaust system differs little from that of a car on any other passenger vehicle. Its parameters are dictated by the make and model, though you can upgrade the exhaust system much the way you would an automobile. Usually, it takes a trained mechanic to upgrade any exhaust system, but you can do it yourself if you have the proper skills and knowledge.
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Things You'll Need
- Jack or hydraulic lift
- Welding torch
- Bolt cutters
- Socket wrenches
- New exhaust system
Instructions
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1
Jack the truck up on a hydraulic lift so that you can work underneath it comfortably.
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2
Uncouple the support hangers with a welding torch or bolt cutters, which will allow you to remove the old exhaust system easily.
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3
Detach the exhaust pipe, the muffler, the catalytic converter and any connecting pipes one by one, starting with the exhaust pipe and moving backwards through the exhaust system until you reach the Y-pipe intersection.
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4
Check the oxygen sensor at the Y-pipe intersection. It may need to be replaced along with the rest of the upgrade, in which case, you should disconnect it.
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5
Examine the exhaust manifold, the last part of the truck's exhaust system before the engine. If it's part of the planned upgrade, you can disconnect it as well. Otherwise, leave it in place.
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6
Install each piece of the new exhaust system, starting with the exhaust manifold and working down the line, piece by piece, until you reach the tail pipe. Each piece needs to be fitted and welded into place, and the connecting pipes fitted and sealed with the welding torch so they do not leak.
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Check the tailpipe to make sure it exits from under your bumper correctly. You may need to adjust your bumper to ensure that exhaust exits the pipe cleanly. Alternatively, you can attach a turn-down tailpipe, which doesn't need an exit.
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Double-check all the welds and connections so that each piece is secure. Start the truck's engine and watch for any exhaust leaks, which you should seal with the welder before you proceed.
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Weld the support hangers back onto the truck's frame and lower the truck to the ground.
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Tips & Warnings
Always make sure your work space is well ventilated and keep garage doors open while you upgrade a truck's exhaust system. You may need to run the engine during the procedure and you don't want exhaust fumes building up.
Any exhaust upgrade needs to meet the legal standards for exhaust systems in your area. For instance, it is often illegal to upgrade a system without a catalytic converter. Make sure your new system is in in accordance with local laws.
