Exhaust Clamp

Replace or install exhaust clamp(s) on the exhaust system to secure pipe connections and repair exhaust leaks.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust clamp (size depends on pipe diameter - typically 2" or 2.5") × 1 — Measure existing pipe diameter

Preparation

1. Ensure engine and exhaust system are completely cold
2. Park vehicle on level, solid surface and apply parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
4. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack at designated front jacking point
5. Support vehicle securely on jack stands under frame rails
6. Visually inspect exhaust system to identify location requiring clamp replacement

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate and inspect clamp area
   Position yourself under the vehicle with adequate lighting. Locate the exhaust clamp that needs replacement. Common locations on the 390ci V8 Rebel Machine include the collector/head pipe connection, intermediate pipe joints, and tail pipe connections. Inspect the condition of adjacent pipes to ensure they are suitable for clamping.
2. 2

   Apply penetrating oil
   Spray penetrating oil generously on the clamp bolts/nuts and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes. The 1970 Rebel exhaust system is prone to severe corrosion, especially at clamp locations. Reapply if fasteners appear heavily rusted.
3. 3

   Remove old clamp
   Using appropriate socket (typically 1/2" or 9/16" for factory clamps), loosen and remove the clamp bolts or nuts. If the clamp is a band-style saddle clamp, loosen the bolt until the clamp separates. If the clamp is a U-bolt style, remove both nuts and extract the U-bolt. Remove the old clamp completely from the exhaust pipes.
4. 4

   Clean pipe surfaces
   Using a wire brush, clean the exterior surfaces of both exhaust pipes where the new clamp will be positioned. Remove rust, carbon buildup, and old gasket material to ensure proper sealing and clamp grip. Check that pipes are properly aligned and fully inserted into each other at the joint.
5. 5

   Position new clamp
   Place the new exhaust clamp over the joint, ensuring it is centered on the connection point. For slip-fit joints, the clamp should bridge both pipes equally. For flanged connections, position the clamp to compress the connection evenly. Verify the clamp is oriented correctly with bolts/nuts accessible.
6. 6

   Install and hand-tighten fasteners
   Thread the clamp bolts or nuts by hand to ensure proper engagement. Do not cross-thread. Hand-tighten until the clamp just begins to grip the pipes but still allows minor adjustment for alignment.
7. 7

   Align exhaust components
   Before final tightening, verify the exhaust system alignment. Check that pipes are not stressed or pulling at angles, and that there is adequate clearance from the fuel tank, driveshaft, frame rails, and floor pan. The Rebel's dual exhaust system requires minimum 1" clearance from all components.
8. 8

   Tighten clamp to specification
   Using a ratchet and socket, tighten the clamp bolts/nuts in an alternating pattern if multiple fasteners exist. Tighten firmly until the clamp compresses the joint securely - typically this is when the clamp halves nearly touch or reach their designed stop point. Do not overtighten as this can distort the exhaust pipe. Standard exhaust clamps should be snug but not deforming the pipe.

Reassembly

1. Perform final visual inspection of all exhaust hangers to ensure system is properly supported
2. Check that no wiring, brake lines, or fuel lines contact the exhaust system
3. Verify adequate clearance exists around all exhaust components

Verification

• Remove jack stands and lower vehicle to ground
• Start engine and listen for exhaust leaks at the repaired clamp location - there should be no hissing or ticking sounds
• With engine at operating temperature, visually inspect the clamp area for any signs of exhaust gas escaping
• Perform a test drive and re-check clamp tightness after the exhaust system has heat-cycled
• After 50-100 miles of driving, re-inspect clamp and re-tighten if necessary as clamps can settle after thermal cycling

More procedures for this vehicle