Exhaust Tip

This procedure covers the removal and installation of the exhaust tip on a 1972 Ford F-100 with 302ci V8 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust tip × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent
• Exhaust clamp × 1 — 2.25 to 2.5 inch depending on tailpipe diameter

Preparation

1. Ensure engine and exhaust system are completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks in front of both front tires
4. If needed for access, raise rear of vehicle with floor jack and support on jack stands rated for vehicle weight
5. Inspect exhaust tip mounting method (slip-on with clamp or welded)
6. Spray penetrating oil on clamp bolts if present and allow 10-15 minutes to soak

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the exhaust tip
   Position yourself under the rear of the vehicle with clear access to the exhaust tip. The tip is located at the rear terminus of the tailpipe, typically exiting behind the rear bumper on the passenger side. Ensure adequate lighting to inspect the mounting method.
2. 2

   Identify mounting configuration
   Determine if the exhaust tip is secured with a band clamp or welded to the tailpipe. The 1972 F-100 generally left the factory without a separate exhaust tip, so any tip present is likely an aftermarket addition, most commonly secured with a band clamp using a single bolt. If the tip appears to be welded with no visible clamp, proceed to cutting procedure in step 5.
3. 3

   Remove clamp bolt (if equipped)
   Using the correct socket for your clamp bolt (commonly 1/2 inch, 9/16 inch, or 13-15mm depending on the clamp), loosen and remove the bolt securing the band clamp around the exhaust tip. The clamp typically has a single bolt with a nut on the opposite side. If the bolt is corroded and will not turn, apply additional penetrating oil and allow to soak, or carefully cut the clamp with a hacksaw.
4. 4

   Remove clamped exhaust tip
   Once the clamp bolt is removed, spread the clamp open and slide it off the joint. Twist the exhaust tip back and forth while pulling outward to break it free from the tailpipe. If stuck due to carbon buildup or corrosion, tap gently around the seam with a rubber mallet while continuing to twist and pull. Remove the old clamp for replacement.
5. 5

   Cut welded exhaust tip (if applicable)
   If the exhaust tip is welded to the tailpipe, use a hacksaw or reciprocating saw with metal cutting blade to cut through the tip approximately 1 inch from the weld joint. Cut carefully to avoid damaging the tailpipe. Make the cut perpendicular to the pipe axis for a clean mounting surface for the new tip.
6. 6

   Clean tailpipe end
   Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean the outer surface of the tailpipe where the new exhaust tip will mount. Remove all rust, carbon deposits, and old gasket material. Clean approximately 3 inches back from the end to ensure proper seating of the new tip. Wipe clean with a rag.
7. 7

   Test fit new exhaust tip
   Slide the new exhaust tip onto the tailpipe end to verify proper fit. The tip should slide on smoothly with approximately 2 to 3 inches of overlap. If the fit is too tight, lightly sand the tailpipe with emery cloth. If too loose, a larger diameter tip or adapter sleeve may be required.
8. 8

   Position and orient new tip
   Slide the new exhaust tip onto the tailpipe to the desired depth, typically leaving 2 to 2.5 inches of overlap. Rotate the tip to achieve the desired exit angle and appearance. For straight-cut tips, ensure the opening is level or angled slightly downward to prevent water accumulation.
9. 9

   Install exhaust clamp
   Position the new band clamp over the joint between the tailpipe and exhaust tip, centering it over the overlap area. The clamp should be positioned far enough onto the tip (approximately 1 inch from the tailpipe end) to secure both pieces firmly.
10. 10

    Tighten clamp securely
    Thread the clamp bolt finger-tight, then use the correct socket and ratchet to tighten the bolt. Tighten firmly until the clamp draws down and secures the tip without crushing the pipe. Check that the tip does not rotate or slide when pushed. The clamp should be snug but not deformed.

Reassembly

1. No disassembly was required for this procedure

Verification

• Verify exhaust tip is firmly secured and does not move when pushed or twisted by hand
• Check that tip angle and position provide desired appearance and ground clearance
• Start engine and let idle for 2 minutes, then check for exhaust leaks at the tip joint by feeling for escaping gases or listening for hissing sounds
• Verify no contact between exhaust tip and vehicle body, bumper, or frame during engine vibration
• If raised, lower vehicle from jack stands and remove wheel chocks

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