Muffler - universal okay?

[Sean0629]

My muffler has developed quite a large hole and obviously needs replaced. The muffler shop said they could put a universal muffler on it for about $60. To get an OEM muffler it would be over three times that price.
My question is, Does it really matter? Will I notice a loss of power, etc. if I get the universal muffler as opposed to the OEM muffler?
Thanks.

 

[Big Daddy]

As long as you get an oem replacement and not some very restrictive piece of junk there will be no loss of power, but they will cut your tail pipe to weld the new muffler on. This means you will lose the "bolt on" capability of a stock or aftermarket performance muffler

 

[rjp325i]

The stock muffler is one piece from the cat back. Shops such as Midas use separate pieces and clamps. Clamps introduce the possibility of leaks. Welding of course is better if the rear pipe has enough metal left. You may find yourself having to do a cat back replacement anyway if the metal is deteriorated.

 

[325eowner]

i had a universal put on my 87 "e" about 6 months ago for $50. worked out fine, no power loss and it's nice and quiet. i do believe it wont last as long as an OEM, but it's way cheaper if you havent got a lot of cash. i say go for it.

 

[rjp325i]

If its a good quality muffler it'll do fine although it may or may not last as long. A lot of how long it will last depends upon where you live. Here in the Vegas area just about any muffler will last a very long time. Moisture is the enemy of the exhaust system. Usually if there is a problem with aftermarket universal it will be that the point it meets with the old pipe. If the muffler has a hole due to age or wear inspect the pipes to see if there is metal enough to clamp or weld. I would think it may be wise to replace the pipe too if the cost is low and the pipe shows any deterioration. You should not see any difference in performance in normal use except it will be quiet. Good luck.

 

[325ix]

Hi
sorry I already posted a question.
but would you please tell what kind of universal muffler I should use?
Thanks

 

[Tom]

You can go with the Remus muffler.

 

[325ix]

Thank you very much for the fast reply