Exhaust Tip

Remove and replace the exhaust tip on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine 390ci V8, including hardware removal and proper fitment.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust tip × 1 — 3" inlet chrome or stainless tip
• Exhaust clamp × 1 — 3" U-bolt or band clamp

Preparation

1. Ensure engine and exhaust system are completely cold
2. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks behind front wheels
4. Raise rear of vehicle with floor jack at rear axle housing
5. Support vehicle securely on jack stands under frame rails
6. Spray penetrating oil on exhaust tip clamp hardware and allow 10-15 minutes soak time

Procedure

1. 1

   Access exhaust tip
   Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle with adequate lighting. Locate the exhaust tip at the rear of the tailpipe, typically exiting behind the rear bumper on the driver side. The tip is secured to the tailpipe with a clamp.
2. 2

   Remove clamp hardware
   Identify the clamp type securing the exhaust tip. Most 1970 Rebel Machine tips use a U-bolt clamp with two nuts. Using the appropriate socket (typically 9/16" or 1/2"), loosen and remove both nuts from the U-bolt. If hardware is severely corroded, apply additional penetrating oil and allow to soak, or carefully use heat if necessary.
   ⚠If using heat to free frozen hardware, ensure no fuel lines or rubber components are nearby. Have fire extinguisher accessible.
3. 3

   Remove U-bolt clamp
   Once nuts are removed, slide the U-bolt out of the clamp saddle. Remove the clamp saddle from around the exhaust tip and tailpipe junction. Set hardware aside if reusable, otherwise discard.
4. 4

   Remove old exhaust tip
   Grasp the exhaust tip firmly and twist while pulling rearward to break any carbon seal between tip and tailpipe. The tip should slide off the tailpipe with moderate force. If stuck, apply more penetrating oil at the junction and wait, or gently tap the tip with a rubber mallet while twisting.
5. 5

   Clean tailpipe end
   Use a wire brush to clean the outside of the tailpipe where the new tip will slide on. Remove all rust, carbon deposits, and old gasket material to ensure proper fit and seal. Clean approximately 4-6 inches back from the pipe end.
6. 6

   Prepare new exhaust tip
   Inspect new exhaust tip to ensure it matches the original 3" inlet diameter. Apply a thin coating of anti-seize compound to the inside of the tip inlet to prevent future seizing and facilitate removal if needed later.
7. 7

   Install new exhaust tip
   Slide the new exhaust tip onto the tailpipe, pushing it on approximately 3-4 inches to ensure adequate overlap. Position the tip for desired angle and appearance, typically angled slightly downward and extending 1-2 inches beyond the bumper.
8. 8

   Install clamp
   Position the new clamp saddle around the junction of the exhaust tip and tailpipe, centered over the overlap area. Insert the U-bolt through the saddle holes and thread nuts onto the U-bolt finger-tight.
9. 9

   Tighten clamp hardware
   Using a socket wrench, alternately tighten each nut evenly to draw the clamp down uniformly. Tighten firmly to secure the tip without crushing the pipe, typically 15-20 ft-lbs (snug plus 1/4 turn). Ensure tip remains properly positioned during tightening.

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands using floor jack
2. Remove jack stands and floor jack
3. Remove wheel chocks

Verification

• Start engine and check for exhaust leaks at tip junction by listening for hissing and feeling for escaping gases
• Verify exhaust tip is secure and does not rattle or move when grasped firmly
• Confirm tip angle and position provide adequate ground clearance and desired appearance
• After initial test drive, re-check clamp tightness as exhaust heat cycling may require re-torquing

More procedures for this vehicle