I recently purchased a muffler that has a 3 inch pipe. The original pipe was 2 and 1/2. Anyway, is there a way to clamp it on instead of getting it welded on. I know welding it on is highly recommended, but let me know what you guys think. Any input would be helpful...

 

You'll want to have it welded on. You'll clamp it on there and start it up and it'll sound like crap; Will leak like crazy if it's just clamped on there more than likely.

 

clamping is ok when the two pipes are sized for it (i don't think 2.5 to 3 would work...) and you use an exhaust "putty" or sealant.

i do agree welding is best.

 

take it from me, even if you are the most awesome clamper in the world, unless you're selling the car, you should weld it.

 

How much does it typically cost to have the muffler welded on?

 

Call an exhaust shop?

 

Call around. I had a repair shop do some welding on my old Volvo when I needed the new cat welded onto the downpipe - I had some other work done but I think just the welding was maybe $30 or $40.

There is no way you will be able to clamp it without leaks, and the tiniest leak will sound very loud while you are driving. Although you may be able to buy a converter you can put in the line, then clamp both ends of that... but welding would be the ideal way to go.

 

You should definitely weld the muffler on. If you do something, do it right. Anyways, at most it should cost 50 to weld it on but there are probably shops that can do it for 30 dollars or so since it's a pretty quick and easy thing to do.

 

$20.00 at my local muffler shop.