Upgrading your Nissan 370Z with an Invidia exhaust system is a popular modification that not only improves the car’s performance but also enhances its exhaust note, giving your vehicle a more aggressive and sporty sound. Whether you are a seasoned car enthusiast or a beginner looking to tackle this project yourself, this comprehensive step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire installation process, ensuring a successful upgrade.

Why Choose an Invidia Exhaust for Your Nissan 370Z?

Before diving into the installation, it’s important to understand the benefits of installing an Invidia exhaust system:

  • Improved Performance: The Invidia exhaust is designed to reduce backpressure, which can increase horsepower and torque by allowing exhaust gases to flow more freely.
  • Enhanced Sound: Invidia exhausts are known for their deep, aggressive tone that adds a thrilling auditory experience to your driving.
  • High-Quality Materials: Made from stainless steel or titanium, Invidia systems offer durability and resistance to corrosion.
  • Weight Reduction: Compared to the stock exhaust, Invidia systems are often lighter, contributing to better handling and acceleration.

Tools and Materials Needed

Gathering the right tools and materials before you start will make the installation smoother and safer. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Complete Invidia Exhaust System designed for the Nissan 370Z
  • Socket wrench set (metric sizes recommended)
  • Ratchet extension bar
  • Torque wrench (to tighten bolts to manufacturer specifications)
  • Floor jack and jack stands (or a hydraulic lift if available)
  • WD-40 or penetrating oil to loosen rusted bolts and clamps
  • Rubber mallet to gently tap stuck components
  • Safety gloves and safety glasses
  • Exhaust hanger removal tool or pry bar
  • Shop rags or towels
  • Anti-seize lubricant (optional, for bolt threads)

Preparation: Setting Up Your Workspace

Proper preparation is crucial to avoid injury and ensure a smooth installation.

  • Park Safely: Choose a flat, stable surface to park your Nissan 370Z. Engage the parking brake to prevent any movement.
  • Lift the Vehicle: Use a floor jack to raise the rear end of your car. Position jack stands securely under the vehicle’s frame or designated jack points to support it safely. Never rely solely on the jack during the installation.
  • Wear Protective Gear: Put on safety gloves and glasses to protect your hands and eyes from debris, rust, or sharp edges.
  • Apply Penetrating Oil: Spray WD-40 or another penetrating oil on all exhaust clamps, nuts, and bolts. This helps loosen any rust or corrosion and makes removal easier. Allow the oil to soak for at least 10 minutes.
  • Gather Tools Within Reach: Organize your tools and exhaust components nearby for easy access during the installation.

Step 1: Removing the Stock Exhaust System

Removing the factory exhaust is the first major step. Take your time to avoid damaging any components.

Locate Exhaust Components

Identify the key sections of the stock exhaust system including the catalytic converter, mid-pipe, muffler, and exhaust hangers.

Loosen and Remove Clamps and Bolts

Using your socket wrench set, begin by loosening the clamps connecting the exhaust to the catalytic converter and muffler. If bolts are rusted or seized, apply more penetrating oil and allow time for it to work. Use a breaker bar for extra leverage if needed.

Detach Exhaust Hangers

The exhaust system is suspended by rubber hangers that hold it in place under the vehicle. Use an exhaust hanger removal tool or a pry bar to carefully slide the hangers off the mounting points. This step may require some patience as the hangers can be tight or brittle.

Remove the Exhaust System

Once all clamps, bolts, and hangers are free, carefully lower and remove the stock exhaust system from underneath the car. It’s advisable to have a helper assist with this step as some components can be heavy and awkward to maneuver.

Step 2: Preparing for the Invidia Exhaust Installation

Before installing the new exhaust, inspect the exhaust ports and flanges on the car’s underbody for any damage or excessive rust. Clean these areas with a wire brush or shop rag to ensure a proper seal when the new exhaust is installed.

If your Invidia exhaust came with new gaskets or clamps, set them aside to use during installation. Applying anti-seize lubricant to the threads of bolts and clamps can prevent future rusting and make future removal easier.

Step 3: Installing the Invidia Exhaust System

With preparation complete, you can now begin installing the new Invidia exhaust system.

Start at the Front: Attach to Exhaust Manifold/Catalytic Converter

Align the front section of the Invidia exhaust with the exhaust manifold or catalytic converter flange. Slide the pipes together and loosely install the clamps or bolts to hold them in place. Do not fully tighten at this stage to allow for slight adjustments.

Connect Mid-Pipe and Muffler Sections

Continue aligning and connecting each section of the exhaust system from front to rear. Each joint should fit snugly, and the pipes should be properly seated in the clamps.

Hang the Exhaust

Attach the exhaust hangers on the Invidia system to the rubber mounts on the vehicle. Ensure the exhaust is properly supported and not putting stress on any sections.

Adjust for Proper Fitment

Check the clearance of the exhaust around the undercarriage, suspension components, and body panels. Adjust the position of the pipes as needed to avoid contact or rattling.

Tighten Clamps and Bolts

Once the exhaust is properly aligned and positioned, use the torque wrench to tighten all clamps and bolts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. This ensures a secure fit and prevents exhaust leaks.

Step 4: Final Checks and Testing

After installation, it’s important to perform several checks before lowering the vehicle and taking it for a test drive.

  • Visual Inspection: Double-check all connections, clamps, and hangers for tightness and correct positioning.
  • Check for Clearance: Ensure the exhaust pipes have enough clearance from the chassis, suspension, and heat-sensitive parts.
  • Lower the Vehicle: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower your Nissan 370Z back to the ground.
  • Start the Engine: Listen carefully for any exhaust leaks, rattles, or unusual noises. A properly installed Invidia exhaust will have a clean, aggressive tone without hissing or popping sounds.
  • Test Drive: Take the car on a short drive to check for vibration, rattles, or performance issues. Pay attention to throttle response and exhaust sound during acceleration and deceleration.
  • Recheck Fasteners: After the test drive, inspect all fasteners again and tighten if necessary.

Tips and Additional Considerations

  • Heat Shielding: Some Invidia exhaust kits include heat shields or insulating wrap. Installing these can protect surrounding components from excessive heat.
  • Emissions Compliance: Depending on your location, modifying your exhaust may affect emissions compliance. Check local laws and regulations to ensure your upgrade is legal.
  • Professional Assistance: If at any point you feel uncomfortable with the installation, consider seeking help from a professional mechanic or performance shop.
  • Regular Maintenance: Periodically inspect the exhaust system for signs of wear, corrosion, or loose fittings to maintain optimal performance and sound quality.

Conclusion

Installing an Invidia exhaust on your Nissan 370Z is a rewarding upgrade that enhances both performance and driving experience. By following this detailed step-by-step guide, you can confidently complete the installation yourself, even with minimal mechanical experience. The key is to take your time, use the proper tools, and ensure every connection is secure and properly aligned.

Once installed, enjoy the distinct sound and improved throttle response that the Invidia exhaust system offers. This upgrade not only makes your 370Z stand out on the road but also maximizes the potential of its powerful V6 engine.

Remember to perform regular checks and maintenance to keep your exhaust system in top shape for years to come. Happy driving!