Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Exhaust Too Loud, Need Input

[Gerfen]

I recentially bought a 97 2500 5spd 4wd, I proceeded to convert it to straight pipe. Runs great like this, but climbing hills is annoying especially with children. I installed a Dynomax 4" race muffler and I think its worse! Who makes the best flowing muffler that is proven and quiet ?

 

[DieselDoghouse]

You're gonna get 'individualized' answers left and right. Each of us probably has limited experience ('cept the guys running shops) Personally I have had good luck with magnaflow stainless system. Also make sure the isolators are free-moving since any vibration transmitted to the chassis/body will turn the truck into a drum. My 2-year old will sleep in the truck at highway speeds for hours (that's a good thingy with tottlers!!)

 

[turbo2fab]

I second DieselDoghouse, I have a 3" magnaflow flow through muffler on my truck and it has a nice tone without waking up our 3 year old. I also deleted my cat from the system and exited the exaust in front of the rear tires on the pass side.

 

[JRS]

I removed my back seat and applied some stuff from Lowe's to the back wall of the cab. It's a black mastic looking roll with a foil backing, I think I found it in the roofing section. applied two layers, did wonders for the sound level in the truck. The back wall is simply thin sheet metal and drones like a drum when you tap on it. (I don't have a muffler) I would imagine, if I had time to remove the seats and carpet and apply it to the floor of the truck (and firewall) the truck would be like a tomb. The stuff did gas off, but it was very minimal.

 

[HerbW]

I installed a 4" Magnaflow and I think it's as quiet as the stock. I got the one that exits behind the tire with a 5" bell. I really like it.

 

[JHenry]

My '98 12v automatic is straight piped with a #5 plate all the way forward with the star wheel forward 20 clicks. My '06 6 speed is straight piped and I wish the '98 was as loud as the '06. I know there is a horsepower difference between the two engines, but what else accounts for the 12v being quieter?

 

[Gerfen]

Thanks for all the input ! I really the soundproofing idea from JRS. I think I am going to add another muffler close to the turbo as a resonater, probably a dynomax bullet?

 

[kenny61]

"Runs great like this, but climbing hills is annoying especially with children. "



I was very happy with my truck until my children started riding in it too. I found removing the muffler and turning up the stereo was the cheapest and most efficient way of drowning them out. The resulting hearing loss is an added bonus as now it is hard for me to hear them and or the wife around the house as well... ... all kidding aside i noticed very little noise difference with mine with the muffler off or on. the one thing that has made a very large difference was if i left the cat at home