Magnaflow exhaust systems

Just a comment or two about my experience with Magnaflow exhaust systems. I bought a Magnaflow cat-back system shortly after buying my pickup in 2007. It went on with some work, but didn't fit quite right. The length was really close to being too short, so I had to fit the muffler (if you can call it that) just right so that neither the input nor the output pipes leaked at the joint with the muffler. After installation, I noticed the section between the cat and the muffler cleared the frame stiffener under the bed by a mere 1/4". It never touched or rattled, though, because the installation was pretty stiff and solid.

Anyway, a month or so ago I got the check-engine light indicating my cat was operating below par, so I decided to try Magnaflow's catatylitic converter. It sure looks nice. That's where it ends.

The cat, which is advertised as a direct replacement, is a bit shorter than the original, although I didn't measure it. My first clue that this was going to be a problem was that Magnaflow configured the hanger rods so that the cat actually has to hang upside down, so that that heat shield is on top, under the bed. It is supposed to be on bottom to keep from setting grass on fire when you are out and about.

The front connection with the original manifold and pre-heat cat fit well and went to gether with no problems. The back end, however, would not mate up to the Magnaflow cat-back system! Go figure! I ended up having to cut off about 1/4" of the tube that extends after the flange, which is supposed to slip inside the tailpipe flange to ensure correct alignment. Magnaflow made the female side and the male side from the same diameter pipe, so they don't mate up!!! I repeat, the Magnaflow catalytic converter will not mate up to the Magnaflow cat-back system!!

Rember that section between the cat and muffler that cleared the frame by 1/4"? Well, since the Magnaflow cat is shorter than the original, that pipe now solidly contacts the frame. I had to remove it and hit it a number of whacks with a big hammer to "clearance" it and keep it from contacting the frame.

On top of that, remember when I said I had to really be careful in positioning the muffler with the cat-back system so that neither the input nor output leaked, because Magnaflow made the tail pipe about an inch too short? Now, after all the above fitting and finagling, since the Magnaflow cat is shorter than the original, I have an exhaust leak at the input side of the muffler. I'll have to have the joint welded up to seal the leak in order to pass the state inspection. Now, let's see, that was about $450 for the cat-back system, and another $275 for the cat....wish I had just gone to the dealership and had original equipment put back on.

But, hey. It really looks good, stainless steel and all.

 

hmm,thats why i just welded my magnaflom muffler in.nice and easy.good quality as well.