Posted by Mike Hartman on September 27, 2000 at 16:54:03:
Hay all you (other) Savage owners, I finally finished the "inexpensive and conservative" Savage muffler project and with only one (easy fix)*minor problem it seems to be a success.
I started with an older model muffler provided by Hackster - Thanks buddy!! I left the forward (proximal) baffles alone, and worked over only the (distal) end unit. Basically I replaced the (2 cm) small diameter exhaust port with an extended 1&3/8" tube plus some other tweaks. For the investement of about $8.00 in parts (not including a new $20.00 muffler/headpipe gasket) and about 6 hours of enjoyable labor (I got the welding done for free)I realized the following:
1. A really great look - the 1&3/8" exhaust port tube extends out of a 1&3/4" tube giving it a stepped down look "looks like the muzzle of a machine gun" these extend a few inches beyond the end plate.
2. The rather bland "pum pum pum" sound is now a deep, throaty "pom pom pom" with none of the "whack whack" of a baffle-free straight pipe.
3. There seems to be a slight improvement in throttle response at road speeds.
*"High temperature" silicone isn't. I tried to substitute a 700 degree F silicone material for the factory headpipe/muffler gasket and within 10 miles sprayed melted silicone all over the road. I guess I'll capitulate and fork over the $20.00 for a factory gasket.
I have some "limitations" on sending material out from the "company" computer, so I cannot post any pctures or sounds. However anyone wanting a copy of the plans & procedure can send me a self-addressed, stamped (legal-sized) envelope and I'll send them.
Mike Hartman (aka Megalops)
369 Fern Trail
Waynesville, NC 28786