Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2004 GMC Envoy XUV, 2004 GMC Envoy XL, 2004 GMC Envoy, and 2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

IMPORTANT: Do not reuse any component of the exhaust system that is corroded or damaged.

IMPORTANT: When replacing the muffler in a vehicle with the LL8 engine, the resonator and tailpipe must also be ordered. The two pieces may be attached with a clamp.

Inspect the exhaust system components to determine if they can be reused.

Fig 1: Exhaust Pipe To Muffler Joint

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the frame brace. Refer to Frame Brace Replacement (TrailBlazer, Envoy, Bravada) or Frame Brace Replacement (TrailBlazer EXT, Envoy XL) in Frame and Underbody.
Remove the nuts that secure the muffler to the catalytic converter pipe.

Fig 2: Locating Exhaust Hangers

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Separate the muffler and the tail pipe assembly from the hanger insulators.
Lower the muffler and tail pipe assembly.

Fig 3: Identifying Cut Line On Intermediate Pipe

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Suitably support the exhaust system.
Cut the exhaust pipe at the dashed line (1).
Remove the muffler from the tail pipe.