This TSB article is being republished in its entirety to include additional vehicles and to include 1999 model year vehicles.

ISSUE:

A "buzzing" or "rattling" noise from the exhaust system may be caused by a loose heat shield attachment to the catalytic converter, catalytic pipes, muffler pipes and/or muffler. The noise is noticeable during normal driving conditions or at engine idle.

ACTION:

Install worm clamps to secure loose heat shield attachments. Refer to the following Service Procedure for details.

SERVICE PROCEDURE

1. Inspect for loose shields. If shield(s) is missing, this TSB does not apply. Refer to the appropriate Service or Workshop Manual for repair procedures.

   NOTE:

   UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD A HEAT SHIELD BE REMOVED WITHOUT REPLACEMENT BEFORE THE VEHICLE IS RETURNED TO THE CUSTOMER.

2. Install worm clamps to the catalytic converter, catalytic pipes, muffler pipes or muffler as shown in Figure 1 for the typical light truck and Figure 2 for the typical passenger car.
   
   
   Figure 1 - Article 98-20-10
   
   
   
   
   Figure 2 - Article 98-20-10
   
   
3. Align the clamps to secure the heat shield to the catalytic converter, catalytic pipes, muffler pipes or muffler as required.
4. Tighten the clamps to 6.8 N-m (60 lb-in).
5. Trim the excess "ear" of the clamp to approximately 2.54 cm (1").

OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES:

NONE

SUPERSEDES:

98-6-4

WARRANTY STATUS:

Eligible Under Basic Warranty Coverage For 1991 And Prior Models, Bumper To Bumper Warranty Coverage For 1992-99 Models, And Any Applicable Emissions Warranty Coverage

DEALER CODING

OASIS CODES:

403000, 702000, 702100, 702200, 703000