OEM 2005 Dodge Neon Muffler

2005 Dodge Neon Muffler Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Maintain a Muffler on 2005 Dodge Neon?

  A: Before you work on the muffler, let the exhaust system cool since parts near the catalytic converter can work at high temperatures. Raise the vehicle with a hoist and spray penetrating oil on the fastener pin that holds the muffler, not on the surround sealer isolators of the muffler or exhaust pipe; in this case, a dish soap mixture or water is best. Before lifting away the muffler, remove the ground strap from the exhaust system, loosen the clamp on the band and disconnect the isolators under the muffler. Be sure to clean the ends of the pipes and muffler so they fit properly and take off any broken or worn isolators, old clamps or supports and pieces still on the muffler or pipes. Always install an original or equal replacement component when you need to change any part of your exhaust system. Don't tighten the clamps until everything is in place and all clearances have been checked. Join the muffler to the middle part of the pipe and install the isolator supports under the vehicle, ensuring each component matches the front from its mounting position. Don't overtighten the band clamps so tightly that the two sides press together in the middle at the hourglass-shaped block, because this will ruin the clamp band and make it ineffective. To replace the band clamp, take off the nut and slowly fold the clamp ends backward until the spot weld separates. Keep the new clamp oriented correctly to the band. Put the exhaust ground strap back, check for exhaust leaks and fix any leaks you find. Finish by looking at the exhaust and fixing any contact with the body panels.