How to Modify a Car's Exhaust System

Car enthusiasts will often modify a car's exhaust system in order to increase the engine performance or get the noise of the engine to achieve a specific pitch. It requires good knowledge of your car's exhaust system, but it can be completed with a minimum of fuss, provided you follow some basic guidelines.

Things You'll Need

  • Jack or hydraulic lift
  • Welding torch
  • Bolt cutters
  • Socket wrenches
  • Raise the car up on a jack or a hydraulic lift so that you can comfortably work on the exhaust system.

  • Note the part of the exhaust system you wish to modify and the point in the line at which it is found. You may also want to note any part of the system which is fused or rusted, since these will be more difficult to remove.

  • Disconnect each part of the exhaust system, one by one, until you reach the part you want to modify. Generally, a welding torch is required, though you may be able to achieve this simply by removing the bolts that connect it. Take care not to damage any surrounding components in the process.

  • Disconnect the old exhaust part you wish to modify and replace it with the new exhaust part. Bolt it or hang it in place on the chassis, but do not tighten the bolts yet. Check that all of the components work correctly before finalizing the addition.

  • Attach the remainder of the original exhaust system to the new part, working backwards down the line until you reach the end of the exhaust system.

  • Check that each connection is in place and there are no leaks or backups.

  • Secure each connection by tightening the bolts or welding them back into place on the chassis.

  • Start the car engine and check the exhaust system for any leaks or blockage. Make sure exhaust is coming from the end of the tailpipe as it should and that the sound is modified correctly by the muffler, and locate and seal any leaks.

  • Adjust the tailpipe to make sure it is flush with the rear bumper and is not too low to the ground.