Exhaust Hangers

Replace worn or damaged exhaust system rubber hangers to properly support the exhaust system and eliminate rattles or sagging pipes.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust hanger rubber isolators × 6 — Typically 4-6 hangers depending on system configuration

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Ensure exhaust system is completely cool to the touch
4. Raise vehicle to comfortable working height using floor jack and support on jack stands at frame rails
5. Inspect entire exhaust system from underneath to identify all hanger locations and assess condition

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate all exhaust hangers
   The 1970 AMC Rebel Machine typically has hangers supporting the intermediate pipe, muffler, and tailpipe assembly. Identify each hanger location along the exhaust system from the catalytic converter back to the tailpipe exit. Common locations include the transmission crossmember area, rear axle area, and near the rear bumper.
2. 2

   Apply penetrating oil
   Spray penetrating oil on all hanger mounting points where the rubber isolator connects to both the exhaust pipe bracket and the frame-mounted hook. Allow to soak for 5-10 minutes. This helps release corrosion and makes removal easier.
3. 3

   Support exhaust system
   Position a floor jack with a block of wood under the muffler or intermediate pipe to provide support. Raise just enough to take tension off the hangers but do not lift the exhaust. This prevents the system from dropping suddenly during hanger removal.
4. 4

   Remove forward hangers
   Starting at the front of the exhaust system near the transmission crossmember, use a flat pry bar to carefully work the rubber hanger off the frame-mounted hook. Twist and pull the hanger to stretch the rubber and work it free. The slotted rubber isolator should slide off the hook with steady pressure.
5. 5

   Remove middle hangers
   Move rearward to the muffler area hangers. These typically support the heaviest portion of the system. Use the pry bar to lever the rubber isolator off the frame hook while supporting the exhaust weight with the jack. Remove hangers on both sides if equipped.
6. 6

   Remove rear tailpipe hangers
   Remove the rearmost hangers near the rear axle or bumper area that support the tailpipe. These may be easier to access and remove. Pull the rubber isolator off both the pipe bracket and frame hook.
7. 7

   Clean mounting points
   Use a wire brush to clean all frame-mounted hooks and exhaust pipe brackets where hangers attach. Remove rust, dirt, and old rubber residue. This ensures proper seating of new hangers and prevents premature wear.
8. 8

   Install new rear hangers
   Begin reinstallation at the rear of the vehicle. Stretch the new rubber hanger over the exhaust pipe bracket first, then use the pry bar to stretch it onto the frame-mounted hook. The rubber should seat fully on both sides with the exhaust in its natural hanging position.
9. 9

   Install middle and forward hangers
   Work forward installing each new hanger. Adjust the jack height as needed to align the exhaust pipe brackets with frame hooks. Ensure each hanger is fully seated and the exhaust system hangs with proper ground clearance and alignment. The system should be centered in the chassis tunnel with at least 1 inch clearance from body panels and fuel lines.
10. 10

    Remove support and check alignment
    Carefully lower and remove the jack supporting the exhaust. Visually inspect the entire exhaust system to ensure it hangs level, has adequate ground clearance, and does not contact the floor pan, transmission, or rear axle. All hangers should be supporting weight evenly.

Reassembly

1. No disassembly of other components required for this procedure

Verification

• Start engine and check for exhaust leaks at all joints
• With engine running, check that exhaust system does not contact body panels or chassis components
• Verify no rattles or vibrations from exhaust system at idle and under acceleration
• Visually confirm all hangers are properly seated and supporting the system
• Check that exhaust tips are positioned correctly and symmetrically at rear of vehicle
• Road test vehicle and listen for any abnormal exhaust noises or rattles over bumps

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