Exhaust system — general description and component replacement (Renault Clio 1)

Contents: General description 🠛 Outlet pipe 🠛 Rear section 🠛 Central section 🠛 Catalytic converter 🠛

General description

1. The system consists of three sections, plus a catalytic converter (see illustration).

17.1 Typical exhaust system components: 1 - Hairpin; 2 - O-ring seal; 3 - Exhaust outlet pipe (front section); 4 - Thermal insulation shield; 5 - Thermal insulation shield; 6 - Thermal insulation shield; 7 - Central section; 8 - Central section (with a muffler); 9 - Catalytic converter; 10 - Rear section (muffler); 11 - Clamp; 12 - Rubber suspension.

2. On models with ABS and/or open beam rear axle, the rear section of the exhaust system cannot be removed intact. The repair sections have an additional connection in the pipe that runs above the axle. The downpipe and center section can be removed without disturbing the rest of the exhaust system components.

3. On all other models, the tailpipe and rear section can be removed without disturbing other exhaust system components. To remove the center section, it is recommended to first remove the rear section, then separate the center section from the outlet pipe. In practice, it is easier to remove the entire system and then separate the sections.

4. The exhaust system clamps and connections will be heavily rusted. Before starting work, soak the joints with a special compound, or saw them off if replacing. Use high temperature anti-lock compound during assembly. Seal the connection points with exhaust system sealant.

5. To remove the system or part of it, first jack up the front or rear of the vehicle and place it on axle stands. Alternatively, place the vehicle on a pit or overpass. Disconnect the oxygen sensor wiring, if equipped - see Part E of this Section.

6. If the entire exhaust system has been removed, loosely install it on the clamps and hangers. Start clamping the components from the exhaust manifold side and work your way towards the rear to ensure the system is secured without tension.

Outlet pipe

Note: A new O-ring will be required between the manifold and the outlet pipe during installation.

Removal

7. To remove the outlet pipe, unscrew the two nuts, then remove the washers, springs and bushings connecting the pipe to the manifold. Pull the flange plate off the manifold studs, then separate the joint and remove the O-ring. Loosen the clamp connecting the center section to the outlet pipe.

Installation

8. Installation of the exhaust outlet pipe is carried out in reverse order. Use a new O-ring on the exhaust manifold (see illustration).

17.8 Replace the O-ring between the outlet pipe and the manifold.

Also use a new gasket on the catalytic converter. Relocate the oxygen sensor to the new pipe if necessary (see Part E of this Section). Tighten the manifold nuts until they rest against the springs.

Rear section

Removal

9. To remove the rear section, loosen the clamp that secures it to the center section. Unhook the rubber hangers from the hooks and, if necessary, remove them from the bottom by turning them 90° (see illustration).

17.9. One of the rubber hangers of the rear section of the exhaust system (marked with an arrow).

Separate the back and center sections (see point 2).

Installation

10. Installation is carried out in reverse order. Tighten the connections securely and replace the rubber hangers if necessary.

Central section

Removal

11. To remove the center section, first remove the rear section as described above. Remove the nuts and bolts securing the catalytic converter to the center section. Remove the rubber pads from the rods and, if necessary, detach them from the underbody by turning them 90°. Separate the center section from the catalytic converter while simultaneously removing the heat shield (see illustration).