Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Grand Am and 2003 Oldsmobile Alero. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: 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.

Raise the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE in General Information.
Support the 3-way catalytic converter.
Cut the intermediate pipe (1) at the muffler (2).

Fig 1: Cutting Intermediate Pipe At Muffler
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the intermediate pipe from the 3-way catalytic converter.

Fig 2: Removing Intermediate Pipe From 3-Way Catalytic Converter
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the intermediate pipe from the hanger.
Remove the intermediate pipe.

Fig 3: Removing Intermediate Pipe From Hanger
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the 3-way catalytic converter seal.
Clean the flange surface.

Fig 4: 3-Way Catalytic Converter Seal
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.