Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Installation Procedure
Important: To assist in installing the exhaust manifold to the engine, the tabs on a NEW exhaust manifold gasket will hold the gasket and the bolts in place.
- Sub-assemble the NEW gaskets, the spark plug wire shields, and the bolts to the exhaust manifold.
- Ensure that the exhaust manifold bolts are held in place by the tabs on the exhaust manifold gaskets.CAUTION: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
- Install the exhaust manifold.
Tighten
- Tighten the exhaust manifold bolts - First Pass to 15 N.m (11 ft lbs).
- Tighten the exhaust manifold bolts - Second Pass to 30 N.m (22 ft lbs).
- Install the spark plugs.
- Install the spark plug wires to the spark plugs.
- Install the spark plug wire support and bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the spark plug wire support bolts to 12 N.m (106 in lbs).
- Install the EGR valve inlet pipe to the exhaust manifold.
Tighten
Tighten the EGR valve inlet pipe exhaust manifold nut to 30 N.m (22 ft lbs).
- Install the catalytic converter assembly. Refer to Catalytic Converter Replacement (4.3L) or Catalytic Converter Replacement (Dual Exhaust - Right) or Catalytic Converter Replacement (Dual Exhaust - Left) .
- Install the fender wheelhouse extension (1).
- Install the left front tire.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Connect the ECT gage sensor electrical connector.
- Install the engine cover.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.