There is a BIG difference in the level of quiet between using the resonator..and not. I feel the smoothness of idle is improved with the resonator. That being said....this is a tricky subject and exhaust shops will be most likely to install the "cheep" muffler on your car. I found out the hard way..you need a muffler with good flow...as intended. A muffler is not a muffler...despite what the exhaust shops would like you to believe. I recently had a nightmare experience with exhaust..and I am VERY unpleased with my set-up at present. Believe me when i say they can really get you over a barrel...and not use the Vaseline when it comes to exhaust. Stock system will please you if you like the quiet.
If you want a little of the best of both worlds..just go for a single and forget the resonator. As the muffler ages..the rumble will get deeper..and louder.
----- Original Message -----
From: Matt Hopkins
Sent: Monday, December 30, 2002 11:54 PM
To: mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: RE: IML: Exhaust system and resonators
I don't have experience with the mufflers you mention below, but I can tell you my experience. My 75 had a resonator and when I had the system replaced, I opted for just a muffler due to financial constraints in those college years ( I've had it 17 years now). When I replace the system this spring I will put a resonator back on as luxury car should be whisper quiet and it certainly is not. My 66 came with duals non factory and no resonators. It also is noisier than I would like but quieter than the 75. When it comes time to replace the 66 mufflers I will add resonators if they will fit. ON a lighter note, my 92 would have to go without a muffler to make a peep.
Hi Folks!
Well now that the alternator thread is winding down, I would like to pose a few questions to the list about my exhaust system that is soon to be fabricated and installed. Many of you on the list may disagree but I have listened to many mechanics and machine shop owners tell me over and over to use 2 1/4" pipes rather than the factory installed 1 7/8". Today my mechanic neighbor next to my business told me not to use the resonators because they cut down considerably on the horsepower. He said I should just use mufflers... a brand called "Sonic" that has "better air flow" and I wouldn't need resonators if I used this brand. I have changed the brake system from single to dual, I have used stainless brakelines and I have painted the ribs of the convertible top Cummins Beige to blend better with the underside of my putty colored convertible top. I think theAACA judges have already disqualified me at this point, so I am not concerned about things being exactly as they were in Sept. of "64 when the car was new.
Any thoughts, comments about this system I have mentioned? Also is there anyway to fabricate an X crossover pipe in the exhaust pipes behind the engine or is there just not enough room? The same mechanic showed me an example of one he had laying on his bench and it didn't look all that large. He insisted I would get better performance and 15 more horsepower if I could install one of these crossover pipes. I am not mechanical so I am relying on the advice of those of you who are.
Thanks in advance.
Greg
'65 Crown convt. (moving through its restoration pretty quickly now)!