how to take off exhaust hangers

Charlotte

3 min read

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02-02-2025

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Exhaust hangers, those seemingly insignificant metal brackets, play a crucial role in supporting your vehicle's exhaust system. Over time, rust, corrosion, or simply age can cause these hangers to fail, leading to rattling exhaust pipes and potential damage. Knowing how to remove and replace them is a valuable skill for any car enthusiast or DIY mechanic. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to safely removing exhaust hangers.

Assessing the Situation: Before You Begin

Before you start wrenching, take a moment to assess the situation. What type of hanger are you dealing with? There are several types, including:

• Rubber-mounted hangers: These are the most common type and feature a rubber bushing that isolates vibrations. Removal is usually straightforward.
• Bolt-on hangers: These are attached with bolts and nuts, typically requiring a wrench or socket.
• Welded hangers: These are permanently attached to the exhaust pipe and require more aggressive removal methods (cutting). This should be a last resort.

Tools You'll Need:

The specific tools will depend on your vehicle and the type of hanger, but generally, you'll need:

• Wrench(es) or sockets: Various sizes depending on the fasteners.
• Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): Helps loosen rusted or seized bolts.
• Jack and jack stands (crucial for safety): Securely supporting your vehicle is paramount.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt, grease, and potential sharp edges.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Hammer (optional): Might be needed for stubborn hangers.
• Pry bar (optional): Helpful for stubborn hangers.
• Replacement exhaust hangers: Have new ones ready before you start.

Step-by-Step Removal of Exhaust Hangers

1. Safety First: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work on your vehicle's exhaust system. This prevents accidental shorts and electrical issues. Securely jack up your vehicle and use jack stands to support it safely. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.

2. Locate the Exhaust Hanger: Identify the specific hanger you need to remove. Inspect the surrounding area for any obstructions.

3. Apply Penetrating Oil: If the hanger is bolted on, generously apply penetrating oil to the bolt(s) and allow it to soak for 15-20 minutes. This helps break down rust and corrosion.

4. Remove the Fasteners: Use the appropriate wrench or socket to carefully remove the bolts or nuts securing the hanger. If they are particularly stubborn, try tapping the wrench gently with a hammer to break the bond. If all else fails, carefully use a pry bar. Avoid excessive force to prevent damage to surrounding components.

5. Carefully Remove the Hanger: Once the fasteners are removed, gently detach the hanger from the exhaust pipe. Rubber-mounted hangers might require some gentle wiggling or pulling.

6. Inspect the Area: Carefully inspect the hanger bracket and the exhaust pipe for damage. If there's significant rust or corrosion, consider replacing additional hangers for preventative maintenance.

7. Install the New Hanger: If replacing the hanger, carefully install the new one, ensuring it's securely attached and properly aligned.

8. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower your vehicle after completing the repairs.

Dealing with Welded Hangers:

Removing welded hangers is more involved and often requires cutting the weld with a cutting wheel or torch. This is best left to experienced mechanics or welders as it risks damaging the exhaust pipe. Replacing welded hangers typically involves welding a new hanger in place.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• Seized Bolts: Penetrating oil is your best friend. Give it ample time to work. Consider using heat (carefully!) to further loosen stubborn bolts.
• Broken Hanger: Replacing the entire hanger is necessary.
• Damaged Exhaust Pipe: If the exhaust pipe is damaged near the hanger, repair or replacement of the pipe section may be necessary.

Remember, safety is paramount. If you're uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, consult a qualified mechanic. Replacing exhaust hangers is a relatively straightforward task, but improper technique can lead to damage. By following these steps and taking necessary precautions, you can successfully remove and replace your vehicle's exhaust hangers.