2000 Dodge Caravan replacing a tailpipe

2000 DODGE CARAVAN
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ANGELARN6N
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2000 Dodge Caravan Automatic 133000 miles

My vehicle was making a noise like something was rolling around in the back. When i looked at it, I noticed that the tailpipe was loose and hanging down. Upon further inspection I noticed that the tailpipe was rusted through. Is there a way to replace just the tailpipe and is it a fairly simple thing to do? I took it to a mechanic and he said that the whole thing (from the exhaust pipe) back would have to be replaced $350 because it is one piece. When I priced parts at a retailer, I was given prices on 3 different parts (exhaust pipe, muffler, tailpipe) so I'm assuming that I can just replace the tailpipe.
Sep 29, 2009 at 10:08 AM
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JALOPYPAPA
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I've been doing my own muffler and tailpipe work for a while and found three tools are indispensable: (1) a tailpipe cutting tool. This is a chain of roller cutters like the business end of a can opener. You wrap it around the tailpipe and turn it around the pipe, tightening with each turn until it cuts through. (2) a hacksaw. Would be fine for step 1 except that there's usually not enough room to saw transversely. Once you've used the cutter to cut off the pipe, you may need the saw to cut longitudinally so you can peel back a remaining part. (3) a tailpipe expander tool. Fits inside and tightens out to restore original roundness after being crimped with a clamp.

There are enough connectors and extensions of various sizes, it's possible to repair a tailpipe without replacing the system. You'll also need a way to hang it from the chassis, which may mean a universal hanger to replace the OEM one. Cleanest solution would be to just replace the tailpipe, but in my experience, they're frozen-rusted to the muffler. It's easier to remove the muffler from a rusted exhaust pipe because you can bang it with a hammer (another essential tool, along with a cold chisel).
Oct 4, 2009 at 4:25 PM