Exhaust Clamp

Replace or install an exhaust clamp on the 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo exhaust system to repair leaks or secure exhaust components.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust clamp (band or V-band type as applicable) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Exhaust gasket (if clamp is at flange joint) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle has been off for at least 1 hour to allow complete exhaust cooling
2. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
4. Raise vehicle with floor jack and secure on jack stands at recommended lift points
5. Locate the failed or missing exhaust clamp by visual inspection and identify clamp type (band clamp, V-band, or flanged connection)
6. Spray penetrating oil on existing clamp fasteners if removing old clamp

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove old exhaust clamp if present
   Using appropriate socket, loosen and remove the clamp fastener(s). For band clamps, remove the single bolt. For V-band clamps, loosen the T-bolt or latch mechanism. If clamp is at a flanged connection, remove flange bolts. Separate clamp from exhaust pipes and remove from vehicle.
2. 2

   Clean exhaust pipe surfaces
   Use wire brush to clean the mating surfaces of both exhaust pipes where clamp will be installed. Remove all carbon deposits, rust, and old gasket material if applicable. Ensure surfaces are smooth and free of debris to create proper seal.
3. 3

   Inspect exhaust pipes for damage
   Check both pipe ends for cracks, excessive corrosion, or deformation. Verify pipe alignment is correct and pipes can mate together properly. If pipes are damaged or misaligned, repair or replace components before installing new clamp.
4. 4

   Install new gasket if applicable
   If clamp connects a flanged joint, install new exhaust gasket between flanges. Ensure gasket is properly seated and aligned with bolt holes. Apply thin coat of anti-seize to gasket surfaces facing flange.
5. 5

   Position exhaust pipes together
   Align exhaust pipe ends ensuring proper overlap or flange mating. For slip joints, insert male end into female end to proper depth (typically 2-3 inches). Verify alignment is straight and pipes are not twisted or offset.
6. 6

   Install new exhaust clamp
   Position new clamp over joint ensuring clamp is centered on connection point. For band clamps, ensure clamp band fully encircles pipes. For V-band clamps, ensure V-groove is properly seated. Apply anti-seize compound to fastener threads before installation.
7. 7

   Tighten clamp fasteners to specification
   Hand-tighten clamp fasteners first while checking pipe alignment. Using torque wrench, tighten fasteners according to clamp type. For flanged connections with flange bolts, torque to specification in cross-pattern. For band clamps, torque nut gradually while checking alignment. Ensure pipes remain properly aligned during tightening process.
   Torque spec

   Exhaust Flange Bolts45 Nm (33 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Verify exhaust hanger alignment
   Check that nearby rubber exhaust hangers are properly seated in their mounting brackets and not over-stressed. Adjust exhaust position if necessary to prevent strain on hangers. Verify adequate clearance from chassis, suspension components, and heat shields.
9. 9

   Inspect heat shields
   Verify all heat shields in vicinity of clamp are properly positioned and secured. If heat shield was removed or disturbed, reinstall and torque fasteners to specification.
   Torque spec

   Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Lower vehicle from jack stands carefully
2. Remove wheel chocks

Verification

• Start engine and allow to idle for 2-3 minutes while listening for exhaust leaks at clamp location
• Check for visible exhaust smoke or unusual hissing sounds around new clamp
• Rev engine to 2500-3000 RPM briefly and verify no leaks under load
• With engine at operating temperature, visually inspect clamp area for any signs of exhaust gas escape
• Verify exhaust system does not contact chassis or suspension components during idle
• Take brief test drive and listen for rattling or exhaust leak sounds

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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