When it comes to overall performance, exhaust hangers don’t get a lot of love. But these tiny, relatively inexpensive components actually make a big difference in terms of the driver’s level of enjoyment, as they reduce rattles and keep your exhaust where it’s supposed to be under hard revving, acceleration, and cornering. Here’s what you need to know about performance exhaust hangers.
What Are Exhaust Hangers?
Exhaust hangers are rubber or metal supports that hold the exhaust system in place under a vehicle. They come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, with the most common being rubber loops that slide over metal brackets on the car and exhaust systems.
These hangers absorb vibrations, prevent rattles, and ensure the muffler and pipes remain securely attached while driving on the road. Without proper exhaust hangers, you could experience increased noise, vibrations, or even the eventual failure of the system caused by stress in unsupported areas.
Why Are Exhaust Hangers Important?
Exhaust hangers might not be everyone’s first choice when it comes to performance parts, but they’re extremely important. An exhaust hanger’s job includes:
- Reducing Rattles and Vibrations: Worn-out hangers can cause excessive rattles and vibrations, leading to a noisy and uncomfortable ride.
- Reducing Body Contact: When the stock exhaust system is replaced with a larger aftermarket system, worn hangers may allow the pipes to rub on cross members or axles, leading to excessive noise and wear.
- Protecting the Exhaust System: Secure hangers keep your exhaust system in place, preventing unnecessary stress on pipes and clamps, allowing the system to last as long as possible.
- Improving Performance: A properly secured exhaust system ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Types of Exhaust Hangers
There are several types of hangers available for performance cars, trucks, and even motorcycles. Each type is designed to fit different vehicle configurations:
- Rubber Exhaust Hangers: Absorb vibrations and are ideal for reducing noise and rattles. These are the most common exhaust hangers, but they’re prone to dry-rot over time.
- Polyurethane Hangers: More durable than rubber and offer enhanced stability. They can be a bit more difficult to install and may even squeak from time to time, but the longevity is often worth it.
- Metal Exhaust Hangers: Commonly used for heavy-duty applications and performance vehicles and motorcycles. These brackets are attached directly to the frame and often to the exhaust, providing a rigid connection that’s sure to stay in place.
- Adjustable Hangers: Allow customization to fit a wide variety of setups.
Choosing the Right Exhaust Hangers
When selecting exhaust hangers, there are a few points to consider. First, consider your vehicle model, as most exhaust hangers can be replaced with an aftermarket part that perfectly fits and serves the purpose. Also, consider your exhaust diameter, especially if you’re using U-bolt-style universal hangers. Materials are also a factor, as rubber is the cheapest but may wear out or stretch, while polyurethane is more expensive but longer-lasting. And, if you need clamps to attach your hangers, make sure to order them as well.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Exhaust Hangers
If you experience any of the following, it’s time to check and replace your exhaust hangers:
- Increased noise and rattles from under the vehicle, especially while revving the engine or driving spiritedly.
- Visible cracks or wear on the hangers. Also, a loose or sagging exhaust system that swings from side to side easily.
- More pronounced vibrations inside the vehicle.
Installing Exhaust Hangers
Installing exhaust hangers is a straightforward process that can be done at home or in a shop. Here’s a quick guide:
- Raise the Vehicle: Use jack stands for safe access to the exhaust system (this might not be necessary for some trucks and SUVS).
- Remove Old Hangers: Use pliers to detach worn-out hangers. If you’re sure the new set of hangers will fit, you can even rip or cut the old hangers loose.
- Clean the Body Bracket: Remove any remaining bits of the old exhaust hanger, dirt, or debris from the body bracket.
- Attach New Hangers: Secure the new hangers in place, ensuring a tight fit. In some cases, it may be necessary to spray a bit of lubricant into the exhaust hanger so it can slip over the body bracket or exhaust bracket.
- Check for Alignment: Ensure the exhaust is properly supported with no sagging or being snatched too high.
- Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a short drive and check for any rattles or vibrations. Make sure to test in warm and cold conditions, if possible.
Where to Buy Performance Exhaust Hangers
Looking for high-quality exhaust hangers? You can find them at Vivid Racing. Our online performance parts catalog contains several types of exhaust hangers, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your vehicle and exhaust type.
Our online catalog is easy to search as well, ensuring you never have to struggle to find the parts you need. And, with over 25 years in the automotive performance industry, we can answer all of your questions and provide top-notch customer service.
