Malibu V6-3.1L VIN J (2002)
Exhaust Pipe: Service and Repair
Exhaust Intermediate Pipe Replacement
Intermediate Pipe Replacement
Removal Procedure
Notice: Do not over-flex or damage the flex decoupler joint when moving the flex decoupler joint from the normal mounting position. The flex
decoupler joint will flex a maximum of six degrees which is equivalent to the pipes connected at the joint which move 1 inch for each foot length of
pipe. A three foot pipe would move a maximum of three inches.
Important: A service muffler will be needed when replacing the intermediate pipe on an originally equipped, welded system.
1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Support the three-way catalytic converter.
3. Remove the intermediate pipe to the muffler nuts.
4. Remove the intermediate pipe from the three-way catalytic converter bolts.
5. Remove rear sway bar insulator bracket nuts and bracket and position sway bar downward.
