OK. I am looking at installing the Magnaflow 15609 on my Screw. I have seen pictures of great installations on this site. I have a couple of questions. 1) does the kit from Magnaflow have the clamps included? 2) are they SS? 3) what is the better installation - clamp or weld? 4) why is one better than the other?

OK - a couple of couple questions...

Looking to install prior to a trip to Maine...

 

The clamps on the 15609 are 439 Stainless. If you were to get the universal pipes, however, they would be aluminized steel (needed for press bending).

The clamps, pipes and muffler on the Magnaflow system are 439 SS. The Flanges, I think, are coated mild steel.

The clamps are enough. Some weld to insure they seal, but I personally feel that this is overkill.


This is what Magnaflow had to say in response:

Matthew,
15609 is 439 stainless. The aluminized pipe is universal, will need modification to fit, and obviously will not withstand rust as well. Thanks for your interest in Magnaflow Performance. -Ellis



Ellis Lloyd
CarSound Exhaust Systems Inc.
Magnaflow Performance Exhaust
www.Car-Sound.com www.Magnaflow.com
(949) 858-5900 ext. 1143
Elloyd@Magnaflow.com

 

HI!... I prefer TIG welding the entire exhaust system. My system is all S/S and MAGNAFLOW. I like it because it looks like a 100% cleaner installation. You will be 100% sealed. I can drop my whole entire exhaust system from the headers (collectors) back in just 15 minutes, all in one piece.

 

I feel it should at least be tack welded.

Ever since I got my Magnaflow installed, I've had a rattle in the low RPMs.

 

the problem with regular clamps is trying to take the system apart because the tubing is crimped. i've used strap type clamps from Summit or Jegs (can't remember which) and really liked them. they are a bit more expensive though.

 

When I installed my Magnaflow 15609 system, I sheared the bolt of the 2-1/2” clamp when I tried to readjust the clamp. I had to use one of my old “U” bolts. I could see shearing it if I was tightening the nut and overtorqued it, but I had one nut loose and was trying to loosen the second nut to readjust the clamp when it sheared. I know I didn't cross thread the nut; I hand tighened the nuts before I tightened them up the first time. Maybe I galled the threads some how.

Dave

 

You have just encountered the brittle nature of SS when used a fastener... I had the same thing happen.. Owning a boat and having used SS a lot, I was not suprised..

 

I broke all 3 clamps when I removed them after welding my exhaust system together. Its like the threads streched when tightened and they cross threaded or galled when loosening.

 

I recently bought the new stinger exhaust (Mustang) from borla. Their clamps are first rate, so I don't have a need to weld.