Installing Aftermarket Exhaust Pipes

Aftermarket exhaust pipes are usually installed on cars or motorcycles to enhance the visual appeal or performance. You may just find that it is easier to find aftermarket exhaust pipes after your factory installed exhaust pipe has called it quits. Whatever the reason you are looking at aftermarket exhaust pipes, if you are looking to replace your factory installed exhaust with an aftermarket exhaust, you may be thinking of stainless steel. Stainless steel exhaust pipes may add more visual appeal to your car or motorcycle. But if you are looking to remove your old exhaust, and install the new ones yourself, you’ll find it’s better if you stay away from the stainless steel exhaust pipes. If you are sure that your catalytic converter has not become rusted together with your old exhaust system, this shouldn’t be a problem. Installing aftermarket exhaust pipes on your car can be done fairly easily in your own ventilated garage or driveway, and you may be surprised to know that you can do this with minimal experience or tools.

Step 1: Find a Kit

Find a kit that fits together with compression fittings. This will make installation much easier since you won’t need to do any welding. If it is a manufacturer suggestion to weld the exhaust, it would be best to have a professional do the installation. Make sure that the size you choose is not too large. You will run the risk of damaging the pipe if you run over an uneven surface and the car can’t clear it.

Step 2: Jack up the Car

You need to jack the car up. This will allow you the space needed to get up under the car and replace the exhaust. Make sure to support the entire car with jack stands.

Step 3: Measure

Be sure you have enough space between the floor and the rear axle of the car, because you may have to wiggle the exhaust to get it loose from where it bends up over the rear axle.

Step 4: Remove the Old Exhaust

Take the old exhaust off of the car. To do this, unbolt the tailpipe then pull it out from under the car. If you have rusty bolts that have seized together, heat them up. The bolts should loosen enough that you can break them loose without stripping the head.

Step 5: Fit the New Exhaust

Fit your new exhaust pipe on, using your old one for a guide. You should use the compression fittings of the new exhaust to hold up the exhaust tubes while you do this. Just don’t tighten the fittings too much yet. You will need to adjust the position after you mount the exhaust.

Step 6: Finish It Up

There should be bolts leading off of the catalytic converter, and rubber mount near the muffler, use these to fit the exhaust into place. Once you have it in the exact place you want it, you can tighten up all your fittings and bolts. Sit your car down, start it up, and enjoy your new aftermarket exhaust pipes!