Parts for your 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero-Exhaust mount

1986 Mitsubishi Pajero Exhaust Mount

Technical references confirm the 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero (L040/L049) is fitted with exhaust mounts, also called muffler hangers or insulators. The Mitsubishi Pajero L040 Service Manual (Group 15 – Exhaust System), the Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue for 1982–1991 Pajero, and the Haynes Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero Repair Manual all illustrate and list multiple rubber hangers supporting the front pipe, centre muffler and tail section. So, yes—exhaust mounts are absolutely relevant on a 1986 Pajero.

On this classic 4x4, the exhaust mounts’ job is to suspend the exhaust under the chassis, isolate vibration, and let the system move slightly as the engine rocks and the suspension flexes. Good mounts keep the pipework centred, reduce droning in the cabin, and stop metal-on-metal knocks over corrugations. They also protect the manifold and flanges from stress cracks by avoiding rigid loading.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the mounts every 10,000–15,000 kilometres or any time the Pajero has done a hard off-road run. Rubber ages and can tear, especially with heat, mud, and salt. Short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase setups, plus petrol or diesel variants, may have slightly different bracket locations, but the inspection routine is the same.

• What to look for: cracked or perished rubber, stretched holes, missing hangers, rusted brackets, and shiny rub marks on the pipe or chassis.
• Symptoms: exhaust thump on take-off, rattles over bumps, new vibration or drone at certain revs, tailpipe sitting crooked.

Replacement is straightforward. Let the exhaust cool, support it with a stand, then spritz silicone spray on the hanger pegs to slide the old rubbers off. Fit like-for-like mounts with the correct thickness and hole spacing, OEM-style rubber hangers usually give the best isolation. Heavy-duty or polyurethane options can suit rough tracks but may transmit a bit more vibration. Refit any brackets with fresh hardware if they’re rusty, and double-check clearances around the axle, towbar and bodywork. If knocks persist after new hangers, check engine and gearbox mounts too.

There’s no fixed change interval—replace on condition. Given the age of a 1986 rig, if the mounts look original, they’ve earned retirement. A modest outlay here saves cracked pipes, broken welds and annoying rattles down the track.

Popular questions about 1986 Mitsubishi Pajero exhaust mounts

How many exhaust mounts does a 1986 Pajero have?
Most 1986 Pajeros use around three to five mounts, depending on short or long wheelbase and exact exhaust layout. Expect one near the front pipe, one or two around the centre muffler, and one at the tail section. Aftermarket systems may add or shift hangers.

Can universal exhaust hangers be used on a 1986 Pajero?
Yes, universal rubber hangers can work if the hole spacing, thickness and peg diameter match the Pajero’s brackets. Go for a quality rubber with similar stiffness to OEM to keep noise down. If you tour on corrugations, a heavy-duty option can help, but watch for extra vibration.

What noises point to worn exhaust mounts?
Listen for a dull thump on take-off or when changing gears, a rattle over bumps, or a new drone at a steady cruise. Any sign the tailpipe sits off-centre or touches the towbar or bumper is another giveaway. Fix sooner rather than later to avoid cracked joints.