Removal Procedure

CAUTION: Refer to Exhaust Service Caution in Cautions and Notices.

CAUTION: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in Cautions and Notices.

Disconnect the negative battery cable.
Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
Remove the oxygen sensors. Refer to the following in Engine Controls:

Fig 1: Locating Exhaust Support Brace Bracket Bolts - Automatic Transmission

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On vehicles with automatic transmission, remove the exhaust support brace bracket bolts (1).

Fig 2: Locating Exhaust Support Brace Bracket Bolts - Manual Transmission

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On vehicles with manual transmission, remove the exhaust support brace bracket bolts (1).
Support the muffler assembly with a jackstand.

Fig 3: View Of Muffler Flange Gasket

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Remove the catalytic converter to muffler flange bolts (1).
Separate the catalytic converter and muffler assemblies then remove the flange gasket (2), from the flange joint.

Fig 4: View Of Catalytic Converter-To-Exhaust Manifold Flange Retaining Nuts

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Support the catalytic converter assembly with a jackstand, then remove the catalytic converter to exhaust manifold flange retaining nuts (1).
Remove the catalytic converter assembly from the vehicle.