Most gearheads have probably already upgraded their muscle machines with a set of headers and a good dual exhaust system. After a few years, it's not uncommon for the mufflers to wear out (get crunched, rot out, or blow out the baffling), but what if the rest of the exhaust system is still in pretty decent shape? Such was the case with a '66 Chevy II Nova that frequents the Car Craft offices. Rather than install a completly new (and often costly) exhaust system, the goal was to just swap on a set of new aftermarket mufflers at home. Sure, the final look may not be as professional as what a muffler shop may do, but you'll save a few bucks and have pride in saying you did it yourself!
Tools You'll Need
• floor jack
• two jackstands
• 3/8-inch ratchet
• 9/16-inch-deep socket
• hacksaw (with new blade for cutting steel)
• 8-inch half-round metal file
• a buddy to hold things
Think Before You Buy
• Are the inlets and outlets on the new mufflers in the same place as the old ones?
• And, are they the same size?
• Can the rear suspension fully travel without hitting the new mufflers and tailpipes?
• Do you want to take this opportunity to change your tailpipe location?
Stuff You'll Need to
Buy
Item
Source
Price
(2) Flowmaster mufflers
Summit Racing
$51.95 each ($103.90)
Great Neck Superpro hacksaw blades
Chief Auto Parts
$2.99
(4) Victor 2 1/2-inch exhaust clamps
Chief Auto Parts
$1.99 each ($7.96)
Welding labor
Local muffler shop
$25.00 (optional)
Total: $139.85
