How to Install a Flowmaster Exhaust System

No other aftermarket upgrade delivers the kind of bang-for-your-buck performance that a performance exhaust does. They let your engine exhale and breathe freely for an added dose of horsepower, torque, MPG and of course—that menacing rumble. In fact, according to one Flowmaster Super 44 review online, the new system “rumbled the neighborhood.”

Flowmaster - A Trusted Name in The Industry

Like other performance parts, you always want to stick with the brand names. And, the two biggest brands in the biz are Magnaflow and Flowmaster. Whether you go with Magnaflow or Flowmaster, you’re guaranteed a great system, but for the sake of this argument let’s go with the flow—Flowmaster!

The great thing about Flowmaster is that you can piece together your own performance system using individual components, from the Flowmaster mufflers to the exhaust tips. Or, you can bolt on the famous Flowmaster Force II kit, which gives you everything from the catalytic converter back. Some kits even let you upgrade to dual exhaust. They also craft custom exhaust headers for racing purposes, but that’s a whole new level of installation.

The Flowmaster Installation Steps

Before you start wrenching, get your work area set up. Start by parking in a nice, flat spot that’s both smooth and shady. You’re going to need the usual hand tools, and a vehicle lift would be ideal, but a rolling creeper will certainly suffice. Now, jack up your vehicle, chock the front wheels and always use weight-rated jack stands to keep it up. Now you’re ready to install:

Step 1: Lubricate all factory hangers, bushings and rubber isolators
Step 2: Unbolt the flange at the front of the muffler assembly (at the cats)
Step 3: Save all hardware for the installation of your new exhaust system
Step 4: Remove hangers from rubber isolators and lower factory exhaust system
Step 5: Place new exhaust system into position
Step 6: Install new hangers into rubber isolators, (don’t tighten clamps yet)
Step 7: Check the new exhaust for proper clearance and tip alignment
Step 8: Once positioned, tighten clamps and flanges to manufacturer torque specs
Step 9: Start vehicle and check for any exhaust leaks
Step 10: If any leaks are found, check for loose clamps and tighten as necessary
Step 11: Start waking the neighbors!

Example Installation Video: Flowmaster Exhaust on a 2011 Ford Mustang V6