Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Exhaust too loud, failed MA inspection

[BadDNA]

Went for an inspection sticker today and before I even pulled in I was told that the exhaust is too loud (4" turbo back straight through muffler) and he'd have to fail me if I took it inside. Does anyone know of any modification-friendly inspection stations around Worcester MA or a quick easy way to quiet it down that's not permanant? The exhaust is welded together except for the downpipe so I guess if I had to I could put another muffler at the end of the downpipeor cut a section and put one in, but I was told anything louder than factory is pretty much a fail. Argh! Please help!

 

[Todd T]

just pack your tailpipe with a couple bags of steel wool and hose clamp a piece of grate or chicken wire over the end. you can just tell them its a spark arrestor.



I would find out what DB level and at what distance is acceptable and then comply to that. probably 89 or so from 30-36" If we have to listen to Harleys from 5 miles away then fair is fair. You could always put a HD sticker on it and pull the "loud pipes save lives" BS on him. LOL

 

[BadDNA]

Unfortunately, in MA, there is no specific rating. The law states, something to the effect of no louder than stock, at the discretion of the inspection station.

 

[rkressg]

Just take it to the next shop on the block. I can not believe that the mechanic would give you a hard time about it. The inspection shop I go to here in PA loves how loud my truck sounds (A big truck repair center).