Parts for your 2016 Ford Ranger-Exhaust mount

2016 Ford Ranger exhaust mount — purpose, care and when to replace

Exhaust mounts are absolutely used on the 2016 Ford Ranger (PX MkII). Ford’s Workshop Manual (Section 309-00: Exhaust System—General Information and Diagnostics) calls up exhaust “insulators/mounts” that support the pipework and mufflers, and the Ford Global EPC/Microcat parts catalogue lists multiple exhaust hanger insulators and brackets for this model year. Ford’s NVH procedures also specify inspecting exhaust insulators when chasing rattles or knocks. So the exhaust-mount is relevant, fitted, and very much part of routine servicing on a 2016 Ford Ranger.

On this ute, the exhaust mounts (also called insulators or hangers) are the simple but crucial rubber-and-bracket bits that hold the exhaust system up while isolating vibration. They stop the muffler and pipework from banging the chassis on corrugations, keep load off the turbo/downpipe and DPF joints, and let the system expand with heat without cracking welds.

Because the Ranger often tows, sees gravel roads, beach work and plenty of heat cycles, those rubber insulators eventually harden, crack or stretch. Once they go, the exhaust can sit low, clunk over bumps, or buzz at certain revs. Left too long, a sagging system can stress flanges, sensors and the DPF.

• Common signs: thuds over speed humps, a tinny rattle at idle, visible sagging or off-centre muffler, or fresh rub marks on the pipe or crossmember.
• Inspection timing: a quick look every service is smart, after big trips, water crossings or beach work, check again. In NZ, it’s also a simple WOF pre-check item.

Replacement is straightforward workshop fare and not pricey. Most Rangers use several rubber donuts/insulators along the mid and rear sections, with brackets bolted to crossmembers. Quality rubber (or high-temp silicone) insulators are preferred on DPF-equipped models due to higher exhaust temps.

1. Let the exhaust cool fully. Support the system with a jack and timber block.
2. Spray the old insulators with silicone spray and lever them off the pegs with exhaust-hanger pliers.
3. Inspect brackets and bolts, clean rust and replace hardware if stretched.
4. Refit new insulators, ensure natural alignment and clearance to heat shields, spare wheel and underbody.

If the vehicle has had a lift, towbar or aftermarket exhaust, it’s worth rechecking clearances and hanger positions. Any knocking, melting rubbers, or contact near the DPF or sensors should be sorted promptly to keep the Ranger quiet, compliant and roadworthy.

Popular questions

How many exhaust mounts does a 2016 Ford Ranger have?
Typically there are several along the length of the system, with at least one at the rear muffler and others supporting the mid-section and near the DPF/front pipe. Exact count varies with engine, cab/bed length and whether the system is OE or aftermarket. A quick under-ute check will show each rubber insulator on its peg.

Can worn exhaust mounts cause a rattle or vibration on take-off?
Yes. Perished or stretched mounts let the system swing and touch the chassis, crossmembers or towbar. The result is a knock over bumps, a buzz at idle, or a metallic rasp when loading up from a standstill. Fresh insulators usually restore proper clearance and calm the cabin noise.

Do DPF-equipped Rangers need special heat-resistant mounts?
They still use rubber-style insulators, but quality matters more. DPFs run hotter, so higher-spec rubber or silicone insulators tolerate heat and last longer. If there’s evidence of heat soak or the mounts sit close to the DPF, step up to heat-rated replacements.