Muffler Question

[Steve Sprague]

Subject: Muffler Question

  Mostly I've found Walker after market type for around $240 but it comes
with a single tail pipe versus the dual tail pipes for the Bosal that I have
on now.  All the local shops I've talked to only seem to have the Walker
single tail pipe and according to the parts catalogs in the shops, say that
it should work fine on a quattro.  So, should the single work ok?  Single
doesn't look as good as the twin.

	On my 84 4ksq, I had to replace the rear muffler and on this model there is
only one replacement from Ansa ($239 uninstalled, 1 year warranty).  Midas
quoted me $404 (WHAT!).  And I didn't even check the dealer for fear of
losing even more money.   My local performance shop checked my car out and
put up a MagnaFlow muffler, with a lifetime warranty on it.  I've had
problems in the past with the Ansa replacement on my Jetta 16v, which Ansa
covered under warranty.  But still a pain.
  Check out the Magnaflow, you can get it 1 in 2 out or 1 in 1 out.  Mine is
a 2.5" in/out which required an adapter to the intake side.  The Walker,
according to my shop, is not impressed with it for durability.  It is pretty
much a low line muffler.  I think I paid $69 for the muffler and they welded
up to the existing pipe which saved me a bunch of money ($125 out the door).
I opted for a single tip to reduce costs.  If your pipe is good then a good
shop should be able to do it for a reasonable price.  Especially if you live
in the snow belt, this muffler is worth looking at.
	The sound is throaty and not anywhere near rice burner sound.  My Rabbit
had a Bola and it was pretty loud like a V8 which was different.  I like the
sound and it doesn't attract a lot of attention, my goal.  Of course you can
add a tip and pretty up the rear end.  This car is a commuter so, low costs
was important.

	I can recommend my shop if you're in CA.
Good luck,
HTH,

Steve
84 4ksq (purchased for $500 now has 317,000 miles and quiet!)
89 Jetta GLI 16v Wolfsburg Ed (in memoriam)
79 Rabbit (Golf GLS) Autocross racer (sold)