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How exhausting.

As it turns out, the state of Texas doesn't care for rusted out, 21-yr old exhaust systems. The factory original exhaust on my '88 M3 was in just such a state, with some additional outlets that came about through the miracle of oxidation. When I took it to get a state inspection, surprise surprise, it didn't pass. I didn't realize how bad the damage was until we took the old muffler off to replace it.

There are only a few off-the-shelf aftermarket back sections available, and being on a budget, I did some research and found out that I could have a "custom" system installed for a good bit less.  Using a Magnaflow universal muffler (Part # 12468) and with the skilled welding of Joe's Muffler in Addison, TX, I was back in business.  Now the Magnaflow piece is a little smaller than the factory piece, and where the original muffler was a 2" core, this one is a 2.5".  So the new system was bound to be a little more vocal...  and indeed it is.  There is definitely some more resonance (some would say drone) in the car at certain rpm's, but the overall sound of the exhaust is lower in tone and higher in volume.  In other words, I love it.  I've had a lot of cars over the last 20 years, and always wanted one that announced its presence like this one does now.  The installation was pretty quick, and it was obvious Joe's been doing this for over 40 years.  I'm happy with the cost and with the finished product.

The neighbors may not like it, but they'll always hear me coming.


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