This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tail pipe assembly on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail pipe assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
• Exhaust flange gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Rubber hanger isolators (if worn) × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks in front of front tires
3. Allow exhaust system to cool completely (minimum 1 hour after engine shutdown)
4. Raise rear of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands at frame rails
5. Spray all exhaust flange bolts and hanger bolts with penetrating oil and allow 15-20 minutes to soak

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate and inspect tail pipe connections
   Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle. Locate the tail pipe connection point at the muffler outlet flange (typically a 2-bolt flange connection). Identify the rubber hanger isolators that support the tail pipe, usually 1-2 hangers between the muffler and rear bumper. Inspect hangers for cracking or deterioration.
2. 2

   Remove exhaust flange bolts
   Using a 15mm socket and ratchet, remove the two bolts securing the tail pipe flange to the muffler outlet flange. If bolts are seized, apply additional penetrating oil and allow to soak. Support the tail pipe with one hand while removing the second bolt to prevent it from dropping.
   Torque spec

   Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Separate flange connection
   Pull the tail pipe rearward to separate the flange connection from the muffler. If the connection is stuck due to corrosion, use a pry bar or long screwdriver between the flanges to carefully separate them. Tap lightly with a rubber mallet if needed. Remove and discard the old flange gasket.
4. 4

   Remove tail pipe from hangers
   Support the tail pipe and locate the rubber hanger isolators. Using a pry bar or screwdriver, carefully pry the tail pipe hanger loops out of the rubber isolators. Work from front to rear. The rubber isolators typically remain attached to the frame-mounted brackets. Note the orientation of the tail pipe for proper installation of the replacement.
5. 5

   Remove tail pipe assembly
   Once disconnected from all hangers, slide the tail pipe assembly rearward and downward to remove it from under the vehicle. Take care not to damage brake lines, fuel lines, or wiring during removal.
6. 6

   Clean mating surfaces
   Using a wire brush, thoroughly clean the muffler outlet flange surface to remove all old gasket material, carbon deposits, and corrosion. Ensure the mating surface is flat and smooth for proper sealing with the new gasket.
7. 7

   Inspect and replace rubber hangers if needed
   Inspect all rubber hanger isolators for cracks, tears, or excessive wear. If any hangers are damaged or deteriorated, now is the time to replace them. New hangers simply pull off the frame-mounted brackets and press on.
8. 8

   Position new tail pipe assembly
   Position the new tail pipe assembly under the vehicle. Insert the hanger loops into the rubber isolators, starting from the rear and working forward. You may need to use a pry bar to stretch the rubber isolators over the hanger loops. Ensure the tail pipe is properly aligned with the muffler outlet flange.
9. 9

   Install new flange gasket
   Place the new exhaust flange gasket onto the muffler outlet flange, ensuring proper alignment with the bolt holes. The gasket should sit flat against the flange surface.
10. 10

    Connect and secure tail pipe flange
    Align the tail pipe inlet flange with the muffler outlet flange, sandwiching the gasket between them. Apply anti-seize compound to the threads of both exhaust flange bolts. Insert both bolts and hand-tighten. Using a torque wrench and 15mm socket, tighten the flange bolts to specification in a cross pattern.
    Torque spec

    Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Verify tail pipe alignment and clearance
    Check that the tail pipe has adequate clearance from the rear axle, differential, frame, spare tire, and rear bumper. The tail pipe should hang evenly and not contact any components. Adjust hanger positions if necessary by carefully repositioning the pipe within the rubber isolators.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all exhaust connections are tight and properly torqued
2. Verify tail pipe has minimum 1 inch clearance from all frame components, suspension, and body panels
3. Double-check that tail pipe exit angle matches original configuration

Verification

• Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove wheel chocks
• Start engine and inspect flange connection for exhaust leaks while engine is running
• Listen for any rattles or contact points during engine idle and light acceleration
• Visually confirm tail pipe remains properly positioned with no contact to body or suspension components
• Test drive vehicle and verify no exhaust drone, vibration, or unusual noises are present

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