Replacement of the tail pipe section from the muffler outlet to the rear bumper exit on a 1970 AMC Rebel Machine with 390ci V8.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail pipe assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or performance equivalent
• Exhaust clamp (2.5 inch) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust hanger rubber isolators × 2 — Replace as needed

Preparation

1. Ensure engine and exhaust system are completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level, solid surface and engage parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks behind front wheels
4. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack at rear axle housing
5. Support vehicle securely on jack stands placed under frame rails
6. Spray all exhaust clamp bolts and hanger points with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Inspect tail pipe routing and connections
   From under the vehicle, locate the tail pipe connection at the muffler outlet on the driver side. Trace the pipe rearward to identify all hanger locations (typically two hangers) and the exit point through the rear valance. Note the condition of clamps and hangers for replacement.
2. 2

   Remove rear exhaust hanger
   Locate the rearmost exhaust hanger near the rear axle. Using a pry bar or by hand, twist and pull the rubber isolator off the hanger rod on the tail pipe. If isolator is severely deteriorated, it may tear during removal. Support the tail pipe weight with your hand to prevent stress on forward connections.
3. 3

   Remove forward exhaust hanger
   Move forward to the second hanger location, typically positioned mid-span between the muffler and rear axle. Remove the rubber isolator from the hanger rod using the same twisting and pulling motion. The tail pipe should now be supported only by the clamp connection at the muffler.
4. 4

   Loosen muffler outlet clamp
   Locate the exhaust clamp securing the tail pipe to the muffler outlet pipe. Using a 15mm socket, loosen and remove the clamp bolts. If bolts are rusted solid, apply additional penetrating oil and attempt removal. If bolts break or cannot be removed, cut the clamp with an exhaust pipe cutter or reciprocating saw. Remove the clamp completely.
5. 5

   Separate tail pipe from muffler
   With clamp removed, attempt to slide the tail pipe rearward off the muffler outlet pipe. The connection may be stuck due to rust or carbon buildup. Twist the tail pipe while pulling to break it free. If stuck solid, carefully cut the tail pipe just behind the connection point using an exhaust pipe cutter or reciprocating saw, being careful not to damage the muffler outlet pipe.
6. 6

   Remove tail pipe from vehicle
   Once separated from the muffler, maneuver the tail pipe rearward and downward to clear the rear valance exit hole. The pipe may need to be angled and rotated to clear suspension components and the rear axle during removal. Remove the pipe completely from under the vehicle.
7. 7

   Clean muffler outlet pipe
   Using a wire brush, thoroughly clean the muffler outlet pipe both inside and outside where the new tail pipe will connect. Remove all rust, carbon deposits, and old gasket material to ensure a proper seal and fit. Inspect the outlet pipe for damage, cracks, or excessive rust that would prevent a good connection.
8. 8

   Test fit new tail pipe
   Position the new tail pipe under the vehicle and test fit by inserting the forward end onto the muffler outlet pipe. Verify that the pipe routes properly through all hanger locations and exits correctly through the rear valance hole. The tail pipe should slip over the muffler outlet approximately 2-3 inches for proper connection. Do not install clamp yet.
9. 9

   Install exhaust hangers
   With tail pipe in position, install new or reuse existing rubber isolators onto the hanger rods on the tail pipe. Push each isolator onto its corresponding frame-mounted hanger bracket. Start with the rear hanger first, then the forward hanger. The pipe should be supported and positioned correctly along its length.
10. 10

    Install and tighten muffler clamp
    Position the new exhaust clamp over the connection between the muffler outlet and tail pipe inlet, centered over the joint. Start the clamp bolts by hand and finger-tighten. Using a 15mm socket, gradually tighten the clamp bolts in an alternating pattern to draw the clamp evenly. Tighten firmly until the clamp compresses the pipes together securely, but do not overtighten and strip the bolts.
11. 11

    Verify alignment and clearance
    Check that the tail pipe has adequate clearance from the rear axle, suspension components, frame rails, and body panels throughout its length. Minimum clearance should be 1/2 inch at all points. Verify the pipe exits the rear valance cleanly without contact. Adjust hanger positions if necessary to achieve proper clearance and alignment.

Reassembly

1. No additional reassembly required beyond installation procedure
2. Ensure all exhaust hangers are fully seated and supporting the tail pipe
3. Verify exhaust clamp is tight and properly positioned over the joint

Verification

• Remove jack stands and lower vehicle to ground
• Start engine and allow to idle, listening for exhaust leaks at the muffler-to-tail pipe connection
• Check for visible exhaust smoke escaping from connection points
• Rev engine to 2000 RPM and verify no rattling or contact between tail pipe and chassis components
• Visually inspect tail pipe from rear of vehicle to confirm proper exit position through valance
• After test drive, re-inspect all connections and clearances with engine off and exhaust cool

More procedures for this vehicle