Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Exhaust mount

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero — Exhaust Mount

Exhaust mounts are absolutely fitted to the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero. This is confirmed by the Mitsubishi Pajero 1983–1991 Factory Service Manual (Group 15: Exhaust), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for the L040 series, and popular aftermarket references such as the Haynes/Gregory’s manuals and Walker/Bosal exhaust mounting catalogues, all of which show multiple rubber hangers and brackets supporting the centre pipe and rear muffler.

On a Gen 1 Pajero, the exhaust mount (also called a hanger or rubber insulator) keeps the exhaust system suspended from the chassis while isolating vibration. It lets the pipework move a little as the engine twists under load and as the system heats and cools, preventing stress cracks, droning in the cabin, or the tailpipe knocking the body. Without healthy mounts, weight transfers into the manifold and joints, which can lead to leaks, broken brackets, and a noisy, sagging exhaust.

During servicing, a quick look pays off. Check each rubber for perishing, splits, elongation of the holes, and hardening. Sight the tailpipe height and centring in the bumper cut-out, if it’s low or skewed, a mount is probably stretched. Listen for thuds over bumps or a tinny rattle at idle. Also check the steel hangers and clamps for corrosion, and make sure heat shields aren’t touching.

Replacement is a straightforward driveway job if the system is cool and supported safely:

• Support the exhaust with a jack and wood block to take the strain.
• Spray silicone or penetrant on the old rubbers, lever them off the pegs.
• Match length and stiffness to the original, universal rubbers can work if dimensions suit.
• Refit with a dab of silicone spray, tighten brackets to manufacturer specs and recheck clearance.

Many 1987 Pajeros (SWB and LWB, petrol 4G54 or diesel 4D56) run a centre hanger near the gearbox crossmember and one or two mounts at the rear muffler. Rough-road use, towing, and coastal conditions shorten mount life. A good rule of thumb is to inspect at each service (around 10,000 km) and replace at the first sign of sagging or cracking. New mounts are inexpensive, keep the exhaust quiet and tidy, and help the old Pajero stay pleasant on the open road and around town.

• How often should the exhaust mounts be replaced on a 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero?
  They should be inspected at every service (about 10,000 km) and replaced when they’re cracked, stretched, hardened, or the exhaust is sitting low or off-centre. In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, mounts can last 5–10 years, but heavy off-road use and heat cycles can shorten that.
• Can universal exhaust hangers be used on a 1987 Pajero?
  Yes, provided the rubber size, hole spacing, and thickness match the originals so the exhaust sits at the correct height. OEM-style mounts are often the safer bet for fit and stiffness, especially around the rear muffler.
• What are the signs of failed mounts on a Gen 1 Pajero?
  Common symptoms include rattles or knocks over bumps, more vibration in the cabin, the tailpipe touching the body or sitting low, and sometimes a strained joint or clamp. Left too long, a sagging system can stress welds and create exhaust leaks.