How to Replace the Muffler on a Dodge Ram

Although Dodge has been producing pickup trucks since 1917, the famous Ram name wasn't attached until 1981. The Dodge Ram has come with variety of bed and cab configurations, but remains one of the toughest trucks on the market. When you start hearing noises coming from the rear of the truck while driving, however, it might be time for a new muffler.

Things You'll Need

  • New or used muffler
  • Penetrating spray lubricant
  • Crescent wrench
  • Sledge hammer
  • Crawl underneath your Dodge Ram at the rear of the truck to inspect your muffler. See if you can spot any holes or severe rust spots causing holes, or loose hangers. This lets you know if you need a new muffler.

  • Purchase a muffler for a Dodge Ram. Most auto parts stores stock and sell quality mufflers. Make sure you get the correct muffler that corresponds with the year of your truck. You can also consider purchasing a used muffler from a junk yard, but the quality will not be as good or as reliable as a new one.

  • Jack up the truck and place it on four jack stands if possible. Although you tend to have a lot of room underneath a Dodge Ram, the clearance needed for pipes when removing and installing a muffler is sometimes more than what's available when the truck is on the ground.

  • Spray the fasteners holding the muffler to the truck generously with a penetrating lubricant before you loosen them. The penetrating lubricant will help you to remove the screws and bolts with ease.

  • Remove the old muffler by removing the nuts from the U-bolts that hold the muffler in place. Don't be surprised if the bolts break due to rust and/or age. You should never reuse these bolts, so even if they don't break, replace them all.

  • Replace the new muffler on your Dodge Ram Truck. Line it up as straight as possible with the clamps and then tighten the bolts to hold it in place. Make sure you connect the muffler with the muffler hangers that come with it and use only parts designed for your truck. Tighten all bolts securely, but not so tight the muffler doesn't have any give during regular driving.

  • Start the engine and check the new muffler for any leaks or loud sounds. If there are any, then you may need to tighten the clamps more.