Date: Mon, 18 Aug 2003 13:49:20 GMT From: 'nuther Bob <nooneyetnopsamhere.net> Subject: Re: Cracked resonator on 96 900S
On Sun, 17 Aug 2003 19:11:22 GMT, "Freddy" <bdnopsamo.net> wrote: >Yes, it is the center muffler that is cracked along the weld, which >indicates to me poor workmanship since the muffler is not at all rusty. >Still looks like new. Not really. Exhaust systems wear out from the inside usually, not the outside in. The appearance outside just shows that they did a good job keeping outside corrosion from being a problem. An automobile engine produces water as part of the combustion process. The next time you start your cold car in cool weather, take a look at the exhaust pipe and you will see water dripping out. The exhaust system is pretty much loaded with water when you do a cold start. Until it heats up, the water sits there and eats at the metal using all those corrosives/acids in the exhaust. Once the car gets hot, the manifold and catalytic converter vaporize the water so that you don't see it. Since the rear of the exhaust stays cool for some time, it continues to be eaten away. Short trips will promote exhaust wear. 66K miles is a good life for the center muffler. You can either replace it, or stick muffler cement on it every month. Your rear exhaust is probably getting ready to go too, but again it will go from the inside. You can just replace the center muffler if you want. Chances are that you will need the rear exhaust soon too. I would just buy the sport exhaust from Saab (or a cheaper reseller) and install that. Last I checked, the cost was about the same as a factory exhaust. It eliminates the center muffler which will make the car louder. If you don't want louder, then you can do a (custom) install of a stainless steel center muffler on the front pipe for the sports exhaust. Or, you can just replace the center muffler now, wait and do the rear when it goes. Price up the alternatives if you plan to keep the car. Bob
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