Another Exhaust Fix and Recommendation

[Shaun Van Ramen]

SvR needed some exhaust work recently and very quickly. Not quite two years ago I took the less expensive (and rougher) route and had a friend help install a muffler. A few days ago I noticed a weird noise coming from the driver's side rear. Thought of a few things. Mostly loose lug nuts. After wheel removal and inspection I saw that my muffler mount was broken and the poor bugger was just hanging there, severely cracked from the strain.

A little time spent here (Delica.ca) gave me plenty to think about. Time to go to 2.5", Side shot and a much better can. After much reading I decided to go with Hoegler's in RIchmond. They didn't have the Magna-Flow I wanted but said they could have one in the next day and to drop on by.

The mechanic there said he had done at least 3 Deli's in the past week and had another coming the next day, so I was quite comfortable when he showed me exactly what he was going to do.
Cut and weld from the header coupler (wear the exhaust spring attaches to the header) - Magna-Flow inline then a bend and slip it out the side in front of the rear wheel. Only need to drill one hole in the frame to attach a hanger.

COOL!!!

From what I read on this forum it seemed a little pricey - $345 (after tax) but they know the vans and don't fear them like some shops.

The Results: For sure there is a slight performance difference - especially from off the line to 40Kph or so - The L300's slow spot. From the outside it is a tad louder than stock. Inside, it seems a little noisier and rougher at idle. But I write that off to the muffler being closer to the driver's seat and a shorter exhaust system overall.

It was just done today but I can say that I am happy with it so far. Especially Hoegler's - quick, friendly and accomodating. I would recommend them anytime.