Exhaust System Neutralizing
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Excursion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:
Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, which is harmful to health and potentially lethal. Exhaust system leaks must be repaired immediately. Never operate the engine in an enclosed area.
WARNING:
Exhaust system components are hot.
NOTE:
Neutralize the exhaust system to relieve strain on mounts which may be sufficiently bound up to transmit vibration as if grounded.
- Raise and support the vehicle.
- Loosen all hanger attachments and reposition the hangers until they hang free and straight.
- Loosen all flange joints.
- Tighten all the hanger clamps and flanges (tighten the manifold flange joint last). Refer to EXHAUST SYSTEM
.
- Verify adequate clearance to prevent grounding at any point in the system.
- After neutralization, the rubber in the exhaust hangers should show some flexibility when movement is applied to the exhaust system.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Carry out a road test.
CAUTION:
Make sure the system is warmed up to normal operating temperature, as thermal expansion can be the cause of a strain problem.