an exhaust system has a plurality of isolator assemblies which are used to mount the exhaust system to a vehicle . each of the isolator assemblies has an exhaust rod which is attached to a component of the exhaust system and which includes a first end which engages an elastomeric isolator attached to the vehicle through a u - shaped member . each of the first ends of the exhaust rods are aligned to be generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle when the exhaust system is installed in the vehicle .