Upgrading the exhaust on your Acura Integra Type S (or its Honda counterpart) is one of the most rewarding modifications you can make. A GReddy exhaust system not only shaves weight from the factory setup but also unlocks a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note while increasing exhaust flow for modest power gains. GReddy has long been a trusted name in Japanese performance parts, and their systems are engineered to bolt directly to your vehicle with minimal fuss. This guide will walk you through every step of the installation—from gathering the right tools to testing the final fit—so you can complete the job confidently in your garage or driveway.

Tools and Materials Needed

Having everything ready before you lift the car saves time and prevents frustration. The GReddy exhaust kit should come with all necessary hardware (bolts, gaskets, hangers), but it’s wise to verify the contents against the instruction sheet. Beyond the kit, you’ll need the following:

  • Socket set (metric, typically 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, and 17mm sockets)
  • Combination wrenches (same sizes as sockets)
  • Breaker bar or long ratchet for stubborn bolts
  • Floor jack and two sturdy jack stands
  • Penetrating oil (e.g., WD‑40 Specialist or PB Blaster)
  • Torque wrench (capable of 20–60 ft‑lb range)
  • Safety glasses and mechanics gloves
  • Rubber mallet (useful for stubborn hangers)
  • Pry bar or large flathead screwdriver (for removing rubber exhaust hangers)
  • Shop rags and a drain pan (old exhaust may drip rust/carbon)

If your Integra Type S has a factory heat shield over the exhaust tunnel, you’ll also need a socket or nut driver to remove it. Optional but helpful: a set of exhaust hanger pliers (available at any auto parts store) and anti‑seize compound for reassembly.

Preparation Steps

Safety and Vehicle Positioning

Park your Integra Type S on a flat, solid surface. Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels to prevent any rolling. Disconnect the negative battery terminal using a 10mm wrench; this avoids any chance of electrical shorts or triggering alarm systems while working under the car.

Lifting the Vehicle

Locate the factory jacking points along the side skirts. Place the floor jack at the center front jacking point (under the subframe) or use the side jack points for the front first. Raise the vehicle high enough to slide jack stands under the frame rails or designated lift points. Lower the car onto the stands and verify it’s stable before proceeding. For the rear, you can similarly lift at the differential or rear subframe. A 12–18 inch working height under the car is comfortable for exhaust work.

Pre‑Soak Exhaust Fasteners

Apply penetrating oil generously to every nut and bolt on the exhaust system—especially the flange bolts at the catalytic converter and the hanger hooks that go into rubber isolators. Allow the oil to soak for at least 10 minutes while you organize your tools. This step is often the difference between a smooth removal and a fight with seized hardware.

Removing the Stock Exhaust System

Removing the Rear Section (Cat‑Back)

The factory exhaust on the Integra Type S is typically a multi‑piece cat‑back system. Start at the rear. Using a 12mm or 14mm socket, loosen and remove the bolts holding the muffler section to the mid‑pipe. If the bolts are corroded, use the breaker bar and careful pressure; penetrating oil will have already worked into the threads. Once free, slide the muffler off its hangers. A pry bar or hanger pliers makes pulling the rubber isolators off the metal hooks easier. Note the orientation of the hangers for reassembly. Set the factory muffler aside.

Removing the Mid‑Pipe and Front Section

Move forward to the mid‑pipe flange where it connects to the catalytic converter. Again, apply penetrating oil if you haven’t already. Remove the two flange bolts (typically 14mm). The mid‑pipe may have one or two hangers attached to the transmission or body—pop those off. Lower the mid‑pipe from the vehicle. You may need to wiggle or slightly angle it to clear the rear suspension. Next, remove any remaining front section bolts connecting to the header or downpipe. In some Integra Type S models, the exhaust is a single piece from the cat back; follow the same process for each section.

Inspect and Clean Mounting Points

With the factory exhaust completely removed, take a moment to inspect the rubber hangers. If they are cracked or hardened, replace them with new factory or polyurethane units—old hangers can cause rattles and poor alignment. Clean the flange surfaces at the catalytic converter with a wire brush or scotch‑brite pad to remove any corrosion or old gasket material. This ensures a leak‑free seal for the new GReddy system.

Installing the GReddy Exhaust System

Pre‑Assembly and Gasket Check

Lay out the GReddy exhaust components on the floor. Most GReddy kits include new gaskets for each joint; verify they are present and undamaged. GReddy typically uses high‑quality multi‑layer steel (MLS) gaskets that do not require sealant. Do not apply any silicone sealant unless the instructions specifically state otherwise—excess sealant can contaminate oxygen sensors and cause incorrect readings.

Attaching the Front Section (If Applicable)

Depending on the specific GReddy model (e.g., Supreme SP, Evo GT, or RS), the system may consist of a front pipe, mid‑pipe, and rear muffler section. Begin by loosely attaching the front section to the catalytic converter flange. Use the provided bolts and nuts, tightening by hand only. Do not torque at this stage—alignment will be easier with all joints loose.

Installing the Mid‑Pipe

Connect the mid‑pipe to the front section using the supplied gasket and hardware. Hand‑tighten the bolts. Next, slide the exhaust hanger rubber isolators onto the metal hooks of the GReddy system. This step often requires a bit of force; use a little dish soap or silicone spray on the rubber to help them slide on. Ensure the exhaust is not binding against the underbody heat shields or suspension components.

Mounting the Rear Muffler Section

Attach the rear muffler to the mid‑pipe, again with the gasket and hand‑tightened bolts. Position the muffler tips so they are centered in the rear bumper cutout. GReddy systems are usually precision‑bent and will center themselves if the hangers are correctly placed, but you may need to adjust the muffler angle slightly. Once you’re satisfied with the visual fit, tighten all hanger isolators securely onto their hooks.

Torquing All Fasteners

Starting from the front (catalytic converter joint) and working backward, torque each flange bolt to the manufacturer’s specification. Typical torque values for M8 flanges are 18‑22 ft‑lb; M10 flanges are 32‑38 ft‑lb. Check the GReddy instruction sheet for exact numbers. Use a torque wrench to avoid stripping threads or crushing gaskets. After torquing the flanges, snug the hanger bracket bolts if any are included. Do not overtighten rubber hanger engagement—they need to flex with the engine movement.

Final Checks and Reconnecting the Battery

Leak and Clearance Inspection

With the system fully bolted in, start by visually checking all joints. Look for any gasket that appears pinched or uneven. Reach under and confirm that the exhaust does not touch the chassis, heat shields, traction bars, or any suspension components. If you hear a metallic contact while manually shaking the exhaust, reposition the hanger or bend the hanger bracket slightly. Then, reconnect the battery negative terminal.

Cold Start and Leak Test

Start the engine cold. A fresh exhaust may produce some smoke or smell as oils and residues burn off—this is normal. While a helper revs the engine to 2,000‑3,000 RPM, listen for any hissing or ticking sounds near the flanges. If you suspect a leak, use a length of hose or a mechanics stethoscope to pinpoint it. Small leaks can often be fixed by additional torque (within spec) or swapping the gasket. Large leaks usually indicate misalignment—loosen the offending joint and reposition before re‑torquing.

Road Test

Take the Integra Type S for a short drive. Listen for resonance, drone, or any abnormal rattles. GReddy systems are engineered to minimize boomy interior noise, but individual tolerances vary. The car should feel more responsive in the mid‑range, and you’ll notice a sportier tone under acceleration. After the test drive, park on a clean surface and check for drips under the exhaust joints—a sign of a leak. If all is well, enjoy your new setup.

Sound and Performance Expectations

The GReddy exhaust will noticeably change the character of your Integra Type S. Expect a deeper idle, a more aggressive growl from 3,000 to 6,500 RPM, and a refined note during highway cruising. Performance gains are modest—typically 5‑8 horsepower and 5‑7 lb‑ft of torque on a naturally aspirated engine, with slightly greater gains on turbocharged variants (if applicable). The weight savings can be significant: a GReddy cat‑back often sheds 10–15 pounds compared to the factory multi‑piece system. For maximum power benefit, pair the exhaust with an aftermarket intake and a professional ECU tune.

Maintenance Tips

Stainless steel GReddy exhausts are highly resistant to corrosion, but regular upkeep prolongs appearance and function. Wash the tips frequently with pH‑neutral cleaner to prevent pitting from road salt or brake dust. Re‑torque the flange bolts after the first 100 miles, as heat cycling can cause gaskets to settle. If you notice increased noise or a drop in power, inspect the flanges for loosening. Replace the exhaust hangers every 30,000 miles if you drive in harsh conditions.

Conclusion

Installing a GReddy exhaust system on your Integra Type S is a straightforward DIY project that rewards you with improved sound, lighter weight, and a subtle performance gain. By following this guide—pre‑soaking fasteners, taking your time with alignment, and torquing to spec—you can achieve a professional‑grade result in a few hours. For further reference, consult the GReddy official website for product details, and check community forums like IntegraForum for owner tips. A quality service manual, such as the Helm Factory Service Manual, is also invaluable for torque specifications unique to your Integra Type S. Drive safely and enjoy the music.