Install H-pipe without removing exhaust?

[Ugly John]

I've watched a couple videos on removing the resonator and adding an X or H-pipe, but it seems like in all of these videos they are removing the entire exhaust system from the cat back. Is it possible to install an H-pipe with the mufflers in place? I'm going to be doing this solo, so I won't have an extra pair of hands to help lower it.

Sponsored

 

[BigEasyGT]

I did this with my x pipe on jack stands in my driveway. You'll need something to support the back half of the exhaust system right behind the resonator because as you cut, the axlebacks will try to pivot.

 

[Sasuketr]

The oem exhaust comes in one piece and h or x pipe conversion requires a cut for the resonator. What you can do is buy longer pipe clamps and cut the resonator and some of the pipe before the bend, that way you may have some space to pull the resonator out. As post above the remaining exhaust will try to pivot. The long pipe clamps might connect and seal the pipe after the conversion.

Honestly i would drop the entire exhaust down and do it more cleaner and accurately. It is not heavy at all.

 

[jdoug]

If you try to cut the resonator off the car with it in place, you risk puncturing the gas tank, I think.

 

[FIVE_LITER]

Dropping the exhaust by yourself is cake. Take it off, makes the job much easier.

 

[AmericanLegend]

I installed my X-pipe in the garage solo. Had the rear of the car on jack stands. I used a small transmission jack to hold the mufflers up when cutting the stock resonator out.

As others have stated, if you have something to support the forward portion of the mufflers, you don't "have to" remove the whole system.

 

[AmericanLegend]

Of course, be careful not to let the reciprocating saw blade punch or cut anything other then the exhaust pipe.

Also, ramps didn't get the rear high enough to maneuver the reciprocating saw. Make sure you have a good set of jack stands.

There is enough room to maneuver the saw without cutting the fuel tank or anything else...just be mindful of where the blade is at all times.

 

[Ugly John]

Well, I went ahead and dropped the whole thing. With my 2015 V6 I had the axle back up and down quite a few times - to the point I was tired of unbolting the hangers and wanted to avoid it today.

It wasn't a terrible job putting it in, but it was a zillion degrees here again, and I was sweating like a pig. Plus, my sawzall battery died right on the second cut, but luckily it was 99% of the way thru. It sure looks easier on the videos on a lift!

Driving around after made it all worthwhile though!

 

[FIVE_LITER]

Well, I went ahead and dropped the whole thing. With my 2015 V6 I had the axle back up and down quite a few times - to the point I was tired of unbolting the hangers and wanted to avoid it today.

It wasn't a terrible job putting it in, but it was a zillion degrees here again, and I was sweating like a pig. Plus, my sawzall battery died right on the second cut, but luckily it was 99% of the way thru. It sure looks easier on the videos on a lift!

Driving around after made it all worthwhile though!

I'm amazed at how good these car sounds with stock mufflers and a h pipe. Most enjoyable mod I have done so far.

 

[Ugly John]

I'm amazed at how good these car sounds with stock mufflers and a h pipe. Most enjoyable mod I have done so far.

Yes, a much nicer sound without being obnoxious. On the gas you can def hear it, but cruising you just get a bit of engine throb which is perfect. No drone! And after putting a Flowmaster on my V6 and dealing with that :frusty: this was a major goal. I had the chance to grab A Steeda axle back for cheap, but I saw a couple comments about drone and that was enough to keep me away.

 

[CCCP1999]

I just did that last week and did a X pipe and left the stock muffs on and it sucked. Then we cut them off and replaced them to get some real sound.

Sponsored