How to replace the exhaust

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Disclaimer

Please note that I am not a mechanic by trade and that I nor Turbocelica.nl can be held responsible for any damage, injuries or death caused by work you perform using this website as a guideline.

This guide is based on the replacement of the 'cat-back' part of the exhaust. For replacement of the mid-pipe, unbolt the front cross member - the same way as the rear one, as described below.

Parts and tools needed

Replacement exhaust
Replacement rubber exhaust mounts (only if the old ones are worn)

Basic socket set
Car lift or high axle stands
(Sour-free) Vaseline
Probably an angle grinder

Help of a friend would be nice and makes this job easier.




Car lift

If possible, put the car on a lift - if not, on high axle stands. Make sure the exhaust is cold enough to touch.

First up: the rear cross member. This part covers the flange of the last part of the exhaust which you need to disconnect to get it off the car. Unbolt the cross member by removing the four big bolts (green) near the corners. Try to unbolt the last two exhaust parts. You'll probably find the bolts are rusted as hell and won't come off using a socket and ratchet. This is where the angle grinder comes in. Be careful not to damage the flanges you keep using!



Before you take the first piece (rear muffler) out, zip-tie the mid-pipe to the prop. shaft to prevent it from bending under its own weight.

The muffler section is secured by three rubber mounts; two on the side of the muffler itself and one near the shock absorber. Use the Vaseline to grease the exhaust brackets and they should slide off with little effort. Wiggle the muffler out and take the other exhaust part(s) off. At this moment the help of a friend would be nice because it's hard to lift the new parts, twist them so the holes line up and put the bolts in yourself. Tighten all nuts and bolts.

When dry fitting the cross member, check if it touches the exhaust. You don't want weird noises or dents in the new (aftermarket) exhaust, so you might have to grind a little edge off the member before reinstalling it.

Job done!

Before putting the car back on its wheels, check all nuts and bolts and make sure there are no zip-ties left on the prop. shaft.

Related links

HKS Silent Hi-Power exhaust
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