Exhaust Hangers

Replace worn or broken exhaust rubber hangers to eliminate rattling, support the exhaust system properly, and prevent exhaust component damage.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust rubber hanger(s) × 1 — Use OEM specification - typically 4-6 hangers on complete system

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks at front wheels
3. Allow exhaust system to cool completely (minimum 2 hours after operation)
4. Raise vehicle using floor jack and support securely on jack stands at frame contact points
5. Inspect entire exhaust system to identify all damaged or worn hangers requiring replacement

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate and inspect exhaust hangers
   The F-150 3.5L EcoBoost typically has 4-6 rubber hangers along the exhaust system. Common locations include: one near the catalytic converters, two at mid-pipe section, and 2-3 at the muffler/tailpipe assembly. Visually inspect each hanger for tears, excessive softening, or separation from the metal hook.
2. 2

   Support exhaust section
   Position a floor jack with a block of wood under the exhaust section near the hanger to be replaced. Raise jack slightly to take weight off the hanger but do not lift the exhaust significantly. This prevents the exhaust from dropping when the hanger is removed.
3. 3

   Remove worn hanger from bracket
   Using a pry bar or hanger removal tool, carefully work the rubber hanger off the metal hook on the frame bracket. Apply penetrating oil if the hanger is stuck. For severely deteriorated hangers, it may be necessary to cut the old rubber to facilitate removal. Remove the hanger from the exhaust pipe hook in the same manner.
4. 4

   Clean mounting points
   Use a wire brush to clean both the frame bracket hook and the exhaust pipe hook. Remove all rust, old rubber residue, and debris. Inspect both hooks for damage, cracks, or excessive corrosion that could compromise the new hanger.
5. 5

   Install new rubber hanger
   Install the new rubber hanger onto the frame bracket hook first, then use the pry bar to stretch the hanger and guide it onto the exhaust pipe hook. Ensure the hanger is fully seated on both hooks and centered properly. Do not use petroleum-based lubricants; use only water or silicone spray if lubrication is needed.
6. 6

   Verify exhaust alignment and clearance
   Lower the jack slightly while observing the exhaust position. Ensure the exhaust hangs evenly with proper clearance from the driveshaft, frame, fuel tank, and heat shields (minimum 1 inch clearance recommended). The tailpipe should be centered in the rear bumper cutout. Adjust hanger position if needed.
7. 7

   Repeat for additional hangers
   Move the support jack to the next hanger location and repeat steps 2-6 for each damaged hanger. Work from front to rear of the vehicle, replacing one hanger at a time to maintain exhaust system support.
8. 8

   Inspect heat shields and connections
   Check all heat shield mounting bolts for tightness and verify no shields are contacting the exhaust pipes or creating rattle points. If any heat shield bolts were disturbed during hanger replacement, torque to specification. Inspect all exhaust flange connections for leaks or looseness.
   Torque spec

   Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. No disassembly was required for this procedure beyond hanger removal
2. Ensure all heat shields are properly secured and not touching exhaust components
3. Verify all new hangers are fully seated on both hooks

Verification

• Start the engine and listen for any exhaust leaks, rattles, or unusual vibrations
• Visually inspect exhaust system while engine is running to verify no excessive movement or contact with undercarriage components
• Road test the vehicle at various speeds and over bumps to confirm elimination of rattling and proper exhaust support
• Perform final visual inspection after test drive to ensure hangers remain properly seated and exhaust maintains correct alignment and clearances

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