SS Exhaust Question

[rwmastel]

Everyone says that stainless steel exhaust systems last forever because they don't rust.  What about the insides of the mufflers?  Are there any materials inside that degrade or corrode or anything?  Is it simply stainless steel baffle pieces that should last "forever" as well?  (Random muffler pics from internet.)

[Vander]

Everyone says that stainless steel exhaust systems last forever because they don't rust.  What about the insides of the mufflers?  Are there any materials inside that degrade or corrode or anything?  Is it simply stainless steel baffle pieces that should last "forever" as well?  (Random muffler pics from internet.)

They say they last forever, because any Time valve exhaust system for our Pagodas is going to outlive us. 😆

I have never cut into one to inspect, call Timevalve and ask. They are very friendly, I have ordered many sets from them.

[Jack the Knife]

I have one from Quicksilver on the way. Might be worth an ask, they’re pretty responsive.

[rwmastel]

Well, I already have a SS set that I bought used and cheap. See video:  https://youtu.be/cBi7EdiB5mI  That's why I was wondering about the durability of the muffler interiors.  Should this system continue to last?  It looks kind of crudely assembled.  It has no markings to identify the manufacturer. 

If I can expect it to last, then I will want to use it, but I have a problem to solve.  Saving money on this used system put me in problem solving mode, and of course, spending a little more money mode.    This used system was built with different front pipes to fit the early 230SL with the long tubular manifolds.  At the time of purchase, I thought it might be a simple thing to replace the current long front pipes AND little curved rusty down pipes with new, proper style parts from a SS exhaust vendor.  Thinking about it now, even if TimeValve or other vendor would sell me the front part, who is to say it would be the proper length to locate the rest of this system where it belongs?  But, this doesn't appear to have any hangers attached, so I guess I can put those where necessary.  Anyway, my concern is the risk of trying to hack something together with an exhaust shop and having it fit.

Is it smarter to try and fit/combine stainless steel or regular steel front pipes into this existing system and get a good fit?

[Leester]

I've had a SS exhaust on my 220SE for at least 35 years and is holding up just fine. Admittedly, I haven't put that many miles on it. Some say the sound is a little different than OE exhaust. I wouldn't have anything else put on - without a doubt the SS will outlast me.

As Vander says, Timevalve (Mike I think) is very friendly and I'm sure he would be happy to discuss providing what you need to get your system to work. He does all the fabrication on site and knows the different model variations. The only real issue I think you might have is inside and outside diameter of the pipes you will need to match up so if you call him, you might want to have the ID and OD of your pipes handy, or at least the OD. The downpipes from the manifold on the system I bought from him for my 280SL are a little over 41mm OD (about 1 5/8") and I believe the downpipes are the males. If needed I'm sure he can fix you up with an adapter if necessary.

[franjo_66]

Everyone says that stainless steel exhaust systems last forever because they don't rust.  What about the insides of the mufflers?  Are there any materials inside that degrade or corrode or anything?  Is it simply stainless steel baffle pieces that should last "forever" as well?  (Random muffler pics from internet.)

Hi Rodd
My 230SL has a SS exhaust that was fitted by original owner back in 1984. Still going strong and sounds great. No leaks or external corrosion anywhere. I'd be confident to say that internals haven't rusted or corroded simply on fact that there are no internal rattles, noises or leaks.

[rwmastel]

Thanks, Franjo!

I sent an email to TimeValve last week explaining my issue and got no reply.  I'll try a phone call.

[ja17]

I would assume that the internals are stainless steel also. Introducing dis-similar metals into the equation does not make any sense in terms of  longevity, material costs(minimal) and labor. It is guaranteed for life.