Exhaust Tip

This procedure covers the removal and installation of the exhaust tip on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust tip × 1 — OEM GM or aftermarket replacement tip
• Clamp or mounting hardware × 1 — May be included with new tip

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind front wheels
3. Allow exhaust system to cool completely if vehicle has been recently operated
4. Raise rear of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands at frame rails
5. Verify exhaust system is cool to the touch before proceeding

Procedure

1. 1

   Inspect exhaust tip mounting
   Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle and locate the exhaust tip. Identify the mounting method - typically a band clamp or bolted flange connection between the tip and the tailpipe. Inspect for rust or corrosion that may complicate removal.
2. 2

   Apply penetrating oil
   If the exhaust tip shows signs of rust or corrosion at the mounting point, spray penetrating oil generously around the connection. Allow 10-15 minutes for penetration before proceeding. This step is particularly important on older or high-mileage vehicles.
3. 3

   Loosen clamp or mounting bolts
   Using a 13mm socket and ratchet, loosen the band clamp bolt or mounting bolts securing the exhaust tip to the tailpipe. For band clamps, you only need to loosen the bolt enough to expand the clamp - complete removal is not necessary. If bolts are seized, apply additional penetrating oil and retry after a few minutes.
4. 4

   Remove exhaust tip
   Once the clamp or bolts are loosened, twist the exhaust tip slightly while pulling rearward to separate it from the tailpipe. The tip should slide off with moderate force. If it is stuck, apply more penetrating oil and gently work it back and forth while pulling. Avoid excessive force that could damage the tailpipe.
5. 5

   Clean tailpipe surface
   Use a wire brush to clean the outer surface of the tailpipe where the new tip will mount. Remove all rust, carbon deposits, and old sealant or anti-seize. Wipe clean with a shop towel. A clean surface ensures proper fit and prevents leaks.
6. 6

   Prepare new exhaust tip
   Unpack the new exhaust tip and verify it matches the original in terms of inlet diameter and mounting style. Apply a thin coat of anti-seize compound to the inside surface of the tip inlet where it will slide over the tailpipe. This facilitates future removal and prevents corrosion bonding.
7. 7

   Install new exhaust tip
   Slide the new exhaust tip onto the tailpipe, ensuring it is fully seated to the stop point or to the depth recommended by the manufacturer. Rotate the tip to achieve the desired exit angle - typically angled slightly downward and aligned with the vehicle body lines.
8. 8

   Secure mounting hardware
   Position the band clamp or reinstall mounting bolts. Tighten the clamp bolt or mounting hardware finger-tight initially, then use the 13mm socket to snug the connection firmly. Do not overtighten band clamps as this can deform the tip or tailpipe. Ensure the tip remains properly aligned during tightening.
9. 9

   Verify tip alignment and clearance
   Check that the exhaust tip is positioned correctly with adequate clearance from the rear bumper, hitch receiver (if equipped), and underbody components. The tip should not contact any body panels or frame components. Adjust position if necessary by loosening the clamp slightly, repositioning, and retightening.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all mounting hardware is tight and the exhaust tip is secure with no movement when pulled by hand
2. Verify proper clearance between tip and all surrounding components before lowering vehicle
3. Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove wheel chocks

Verification

• Start the engine and listen for any exhaust leaks at the tip connection - a ticking or hissing sound indicates a loose or improperly seated connection
• Visually inspect the tip alignment from behind the vehicle to ensure it is centered and properly positioned
• With engine running, feel around the connection point for escaping exhaust gases (use caution and do not touch hot surfaces)
• Take a short test drive and re-verify tip security and alignment afterward

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