How to Install MagnaFlow Axle Back on 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler

Quick Answer

Installing the MagnaFlow Street Series Axle Back Exhaust on a 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler is a straightforward bolt-on job that takes about an hour with basic hand tools. No cutting or welding is required.

Installation Steps

1. 1. Raise and Support the Vehicle: Park on level ground, chock the front wheels, and safely jack up the rear axle. Place jack stands under the frame rails—not the axle—to keep the suspension relaxed and the exhaust hangers accessible. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. 2. Remove the Factory Axle Back Section: Spray the factory slip-joint and hanger isolators with penetrating oil. Use a 13mm socket to loosen the clamp at the axle-back connection. Slide the factory muffler off the hangers and out from under the vehicle. The stock unit is heavy—support it as you work it free. If the slip joint is stuck, tap the pipe with a rubber mallet rather than prying with a screwdriver to avoid denting the metal.
3. 3. Clean the Mid-Pipe Connection: Wipe the exposed end of the mid-pipe with a rag to remove dirt and rust. Lightly sand any surface corrosion with fine-grit sandpaper so the new exhaust slides on smoothly. Apply a thin coat of anti-seize compound to the pipe end. Skipping anti-seize can cause the stainless joint to seize over time.
4. 4. Install the MagnaFlow Axle Back Assembly: Slide the new MagnaFlow Street Series muffler onto the mid-pipe. Push the hanger rods into the rubber isolators until they seat fully. Adjust the muffler position so the tip is centered in the bumper cutout and the muffler body does not contact the spare tire carrier or frame. Rotate the muffler slightly before tightening to fine-tune tip alignment.
5. 5. Tighten the Clamp and Check for Leaks: Tighten the supplied band clamp to 35-40 ft-lbs. Start the engine and listen for exhaust leaks at the slip joint. If you hear a tick, tighten the clamp another 5 ft-lbs. Re-check tip clearance after the system warms up. Do not exceed 45 ft-lbs—overtightening can crush the pipe or distort the clamp.
6. 6. Lower the Vehicle and Test Drive: Remove the jack stands, lower the Jeep, and take a short test drive. Listen for rattles or contact with the underbody. After the first heat cycle, re-check the clamp torque—it may loosen slightly as the gasket seats. Re-torque the clamp after 100 miles for a permanent seal.

Product Details

• MagnaFlow 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler 2.0L | 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler 3.6L Street Series Axle Back Performance Exhaust System: Fits 2018-2026 Jeep Wrangler 2.0L and 3.6L models. Available with polished or black coated tip finish. You can match the exhaust tip to your Jeep's styling without affecting performance or sound.