2001 Dodge Ram Muffler Replacement For 3.9L 5.2L 5.9L 8.0L

The muffler on the 2001 Dodge Ram is a part of the motor vehicle’s exhaust system that is responsible for silencing the noise being expelled from the engine. It’s important to replace the muffler if it becomes damaged or forms rust holes. A damaged muffler can affect a trucks performance, cause it to fail a smog test in certain states, and land the driver a ticket for violating the legal decibel exhaust law.

The process of replacing the muffler involves removing the old muffler and swapping it out with a new part. Use this step-by-step muffler removal and replacement guide when replacing the muffler on the 2001 Dodge Ram truck.

Muffler Removal - 3.9L/5.2L/5.9L/8.0L

1. Jack up and support the vehicle on a flat surface. Refer to the truck’s owners manual for lifting procedures.
2. Use heat valve lubricant to saturate the clamp nuts. Allow a minimum of 5 minutes for the lubricant to absorb.
3. Disconnect the muffler hanger frame of the truck.
4. Remove the clamps and nuts from both sides of the muffler.
5. Remove the muffler.

Muffler Replacement - 3.9L/5.2L/5.9L/8.0L

1. Install the replacement muffler and clamps loosely to allow for proper alignment.
2. Reconnect the muffler hanger to the trucks frame.
3. Torque the clamp nuts to 35 ft. lbs. (48 N·m)
4. Carefully lower the truck.
5. Start the Dodge Ram truck and inspect the exhaust system for leaks. Ensure the exhaust system is not coming into contact with the frame or body panels. There should be a minimum of 1.0 in (25.4 mm) of space between the exhaust system components and frame/body parts. Make adjustments if necessary.

Muffler Removal - 5.9L Diesel

1. Disconnect the negative cables from the battery.
2. Raise the truck and support it with the proper jack stands. Refer to the vehicles owners manual for proper jacking procedures.
3. Detach the muffler from the tailpipe extension pipe clamps.
4. Detach the trucks muffler from the hanger isolators.
5. Detach the tailpipe from the muffler.
6. Detach the muffler from the exhaust extension pipe and remove the muffler from the truck.

Muffler Replacement - 5.9L Diesel

1. Reinstall the muffler hanger rods into the isolators.
2. Install the replacement muffler into the extension pipe.
3. Reinstall the tailpipe into the new muffler.
4. Reinstall the exhaust clamps and align the truck’s exhaust system before torquing the clamp nuts. Once aligned, tighten clamp nuts to 35 ft. lbs (48 N·m).
5. Lower the truck.
6. Reconnect the negative cables to the battery.
7. Start the trucks engine and inspect the exhaust system for exhaust leaks. Make sure the exhaust system is not coming into contact with trucks frame or body panels. There should be a minimum of 1.0 in. (25.4mm) of space between the exhaust system and body/frame parts. Make adjustments if necessary.