i need mufler advice

["Robert T. Chafin" <rtchafin@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

At 10:35 PM 7/31/98 -0400, mbolmida@domain.elided
wrote:
>
>Date: Fri, 31 Jul 1998 17:16:12 -0100
>From: mbolmida <mbolmida@domain.elided>
>Subject: i need mufler advice
>
>        Ok everyone, Is it time for me to buy a new muffler. I've got a
>rattle in the muffler
>in my 91 318is. It sounds like some small loose pieces that I could ignore,
>but as 
>a retentive Bimmer boy I just cant stand it. Is there any way of removing
>these pieces?
>
>        Do any of you have experience with the Ansa muffler or any other
>OEMs for that year? I dont want high proformance just a good long lasting
>muffler
>that sounds good and performs like the original. Luckly I've only got to
>purchase
>from the converter back. Ansa will run me about $225 plus shipping. My
>fiances can afford 
>that, but not much more concidering I need it installed too.
> 
>
>Any suggestions?
>
>mbolmida@domain.elided
>91 318is red
>
Two points:  1) That rattling noise in your muffler could be migratory
converter parts,  i.e., the converter may be dead.  The principal side
effect of this can be plugging of muffler passages and power loss;  these
effects might not be noticed in anything other than high-RPM, WOT (that's
Wide Open Throttle) operation; there's no effect on fuel economy.
Secondary effect:  Increased emissions.
2) Ansa mufflers work OK - put one on my '84 733, and it is just as quiet
as the OEM muffler.  I think you ought to be able to beat the $225 price,
though.  Installation in a good muffler shop should run $30-$40 and take 45
minutes, including re-installing any heat shields.

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