Exhaust Heat Shield Explanation

EXHAUST HEAT SHIELD DESCRIPTION
Heat shields are made of stamped/formed steel, or metal foil.

Exhaust heat shields are needed to protect both the vehicle and the environment from the high temperatures developed by the catalytic converter. The catalytic converter releases additional heat into the exhaust system. Under severe operating conditions, the temperature increases in the area of the converter. Such conditions can exist when the engine misfires or otherwise does not operate at peak efficiency.

EXHAUST HEAT SHIELD REMOVAL
1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Remove the screws or nuts holding the heat shields to the frame or floor pan.
3. When removing muffler heat shield, the muffler front support bracket must be removed first.
4. Slide the shields out around the exhaust system.

EXHAUST HEAT SHIELD INSTALLATION
1. Position the heat shields to the floor pan or the frame and install the screws or nuts
2. Tighten the nuts or screws to 45 N.m (33 ft. lbs.).
3. Lower the vehicle.