Removal Procedure

Servicing of the catalytic converter, resonator or pipe requires the replacement of the exhaust system as a complete one-piece unit.

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE .
2. Remove the oxygen sensor wiring harness heat shield. Refer to OXYGEN SENSOR WIRING HARNESS HEAT SHIELD REPLACEMENT  .
   Fig 1: Removing Catalytic Converter Gasket

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
3. Disconnect the heated oxygen sensor at the pigtail.
4. Remove the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) 2 if replacement is necessary. Refer to HEATED OXYGEN SENSOR .
5. Remove the four nuts securing the catalytic converter to the exhaust manifold pipe.
6. Remove the catalytic converter gasket. Do not reuse the gasket.
7. Suitably support the exhaust system.
8. Remove the two bolts securing the center exhaust hangers to the rear suspension support brackets.
   Fig 2: Removing Bolts Securing Center Exhaust Hangers To Rear Suspension Support Brackets

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
9. Remove the bolt securing the rear exhaust hanger bracket to the rear compartment rail.
10. With the aid of an assistant, lower the exhaust system.
    Fig 3: Removing Bolt Securing Rear Exhaust Hanger Bracket To Rear Compartment Rail

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
11. Remove the nut securing the rear exhaust hanger to the rear exhaust hanger bracket.
12. Remove the rear exhaust hanger bracket from the rear exhaust hanger.
    Fig 4: Removing Rear Exhaust Hanger Bracket From Rear Exhaust Hanger

    Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.