This procedure covers the replacement of exhaust system rubber hangers and brackets on a 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins diesel engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Exhaust hanger rubber isolators × 4 — Use OEM specification
• Hanger bracket (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure exhaust system is completely cool to the touch
2. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
3. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
4. Raise vehicle using floor jack at manufacturer-recommended lift points
5. Support vehicle securely on jack stands rated for vehicle weight (minimum 3 tons per stand)
6. Spray all exhaust hanger bolts and bracket mounting points with penetrating oil and allow to soak

Procedure

1. 1

   Inspect exhaust system and identify hanger locations
   From beneath the vehicle, locate all exhaust hangers from the exhaust manifold back to the tailpipe. The 2014 Ram 2500 with 6.7L Cummins typically has 4-5 hanger points along the exhaust system. Inspect each rubber isolator for cracking, tearing, or deterioration. Mark damaged hangers for replacement.
2. 2

   Remove heat shields if obstructing access
   If heat shields block access to hanger mounting bolts, remove the necessary heat shield fasteners. Retain all hardware for reinstallation. Heat shields are typically secured with 10mm bolts or clips.
   Torque spec

   Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Support exhaust system weight
   Before removing any hangers, support the exhaust system weight using a floor jack with a block of wood to prevent damage to pipes. Position the support near the center of the section being worked on to maintain proper alignment during hanger replacement.
4. 4

   Remove forward exhaust hangers
   Starting at the front of the vehicle, use a socket wrench to remove the hanger mounting bolts from the frame or crossmember. The rubber isolator may be slotted onto a bracket - use a pry bar to gently separate the rubber from the bracket hook if necessary. Remove the old rubber isolators and inspect the metal brackets for damage or excessive rust.
   ⚠Do not pry directly against exhaust pipes as this can dent or damage the tubing. Use leverage against brackets only.
   Torque spec

   Hanger Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove mid-section exhaust hangers
   Continue removing hangers working toward the rear of the vehicle. Maintain exhaust support with the floor jack, adjusting position as needed. For hangers with integral brackets, remove the bracket-to-frame bolts. Note the orientation and position of all brackets for correct reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Hanger Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove rear exhaust hangers
   Remove the remaining hangers near the tailpipe and muffler assembly. These hangers often support the most weight and may require additional leverage to separate. Do not allow the exhaust system to hang unsupported at any time.
   Torque spec

   Hanger Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Clean mounting surfaces and inspect hardware
   Use a wire brush to clean all hanger mounting surfaces on the frame and brackets. Remove rust, dirt, and old rubber residue. Inspect all metal brackets for cracks, excessive corrosion, or deformation. Replace any damaged brackets. Check that all bolt threads are clean and undamaged.
8. 8

   Install new forward hanger isolators
   Beginning at the front of the vehicle, install new rubber isolators onto the exhaust pipe brackets. You may need to lubricate the rubber with soapy water to ease installation onto hooks. Position the hanger brackets to the frame mounting points and start bolts by hand to ensure proper thread engagement.
   Torque spec

   Hanger Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Install mid-section and rear hanger isolators
   Continue installing new rubber isolators working toward the rear. Ensure each isolator is fully seated on both the exhaust bracket and frame hook. Leave all bolts hand-tight until all hangers are installed to allow for alignment adjustment.
   Torque spec

   Hanger Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Align exhaust system and torque hanger bolts
    With all hangers installed, verify the exhaust system has proper clearance from the frame, fuel tank, brake lines, and driveshaft (minimum 1 inch clearance recommended). Adjust hanger positions as needed. Once alignment is correct, torque all hanger bolts to specification starting from the front and working rearward. This ensures proper system alignment and prevents binding.
    Torque spec

    Hanger Bolts27 Nm (20 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall heat shields
    If heat shields were removed, reinstall them now ensuring they are properly positioned and not touching the exhaust pipes. Torque heat shield bolts to specification. Verify shields have proper clearance and will not rattle against exhaust components.
    Torque spec

    Heat Shield Bolts10 Nm (7 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Remove jack supports from under exhaust system
2. Perform final visual inspection of all hanger connections and clearances
3. Verify no tools or parts were left in the work area
4. Lower vehicle from jack stands safely

Verification

• Start engine and allow to idle. Listen for any unusual rattles or contact noises from exhaust system
• Have assistant gently shake tailpipe side-to-side while observing all hangers for proper retention and no excessive movement
• Verify exhaust system maintains proper clearance from all components during movement
• Check for exhaust leaks at all flange connections that may have been disturbed during work
• Road test vehicle over bumps and during acceleration to confirm hangers are properly supporting the exhaust system with no rattles or vibrations

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