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Saab: running without a muffler, universal question, unburned fuel


Question
the pipe that leads to my muffler fell of and the part won't be in in time for me to drive back to school. i have about a 5 hour drive to make and i was wondering how safe it would be to drive it back? i would do whatever it took, like stopping or whatever, to drive it because it's the only way i can get back to school. what is the worst thing that would happen? it's a '97 convertible.

Answer
First of all, I am not very familier with the "GM" saab that you have but, this is a fairly universal question. I have often been placed in your position myself. I beleive that you will be fine and do no damage to the car. On the other hand, due to the lack of back pressure you will likely backfire a fair amount (unburned fuel will be funneled into the exhaust manifold and explode when it hit's the hot metal). Make sure that you do not have a fuel leak of any kind.