Auto Parts: exhaust, tig welder, muffler shop

Question
I recently went to a well know auto repair shop to see if my car 1996 maxima would pass inspection, everything thing is in good condition except for the exhaust it has a hole in it which makes my car sounds like a truck but this store wants me to buy the whole exhaust system for $500 but when I took it to a local mech.  He stated that I only need one piece.....can you help me find this piece of the exhaust pipe from the cat to front engine with out spending $500 plus for the entire system

Answer
    This part which you describe as the pipe from the cat to the engine, also contains a catalytic converter.  The use of more than one converter is common on newer cars, some V8 Mustangs have six of the things.  Because of that, the part is expensive.  RockAuto, the online parts source sells the part, Walker #50522, for $400.00.  They usually have close to the best prices around.  Now, you could try to have an exhaust shop weld this thing up for you.  But, it will depend on how it broke and where it broke.  A franchise muffler shop, such as Midas, will not do this for you.  Tampering with a converter is a gray area, legally speaking, and the potential of a $10,000 fine pretty much keeps them from trying.  In addition, this part is made from stainless steel, which is difficult to weld with ordinary welding equipment.  It would require a TIG welder, the appropriate rods, and a knowledgeable operator.  If you know someone in the welding business they might be willing to take a whack at it, but you'd probably have to remove the part from the car first, and that's going to be a long, involved process as well.  I think I would try to find an independent exhaust specialist and see if he is willing to fix your problem.  If you can't find one, then knuckle under and buy the right part; at least you won't have to buy another one for 13 years.