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Corvette: Muffler Modifications

An aftermarket muffler could amplify your engine's performance and make the Corvette sound even more vicious. Learn about the various muffler mods below.

By Jerry Perez - March 4, 2015

This article applies to the C5, C6 and C7 Corvette (1997-current).

The muffler is a component of the exhaust system (located underneath a vehicle) that transfers gases and pressure to and out of the tail pipes. The sound waves caused by the exhaust gas move through the system and bounce around inside the muffler. Once inside the muffler, the sound is quieted down in the resonance chamber. The Corvette's stock exhaust system, while designed to sound powerful, leaves room for improvement. This overview breaks down the various kinds of mufflers and their different benefits.

Muffler Modifications

Figure 1. The sound a muffler emits is dictated by the way gases flow inside of it.

All mufflers have an intake, an outlet and a resonance chamber and can be divided into two categories: stock and performance. Performance mufflers are then categorized by reactive mufflers, absorptive mufflers and a combination of the two. There are literally hundreds of manufacturers, so finding the right muffler is a matter of research and patience.

Reactive Mufflers

DIY Cost – $400 to $1,100 for parts

Professional Cost – $140 to $220 for labor only

Skill Level – Moderate

This Flowmaster muffler is equipped with a system called Delta Flow technology. It uses delta-shaped baffles, or dividers, that guide gases through the muffler in a specific pattern. Flowmaster mufflers are known for their deep gurgle exhaust note that is guaranteed to turn heads. Exhaust work usually requires the help of another person and may involve welding.

Absorptive Mufflers

DIY Cost – $175 to $390 for parts

Professional Cost – $200 to $300 for labor only

Skill Level – Moderate

Absorptive mufflers allow the incoming sound entering the muffler to interact and "play" with the packing material inside and is then converted into heat. These mufflers were made famous in 1950's hot rods. This kind of mufflers involve pipe cutting and welding, as well as the help of another person.

Combination Mufflers

DIY Cost – $110 to $180 for parts

Professional Cost – $150 to $200 for labor only

Skill Level – Moderate

Combination mufflers are chosen by dedicated enthusiasts because they offer the best balance of flow and sound and can handle the extra gases and turbulence of high power engines, such as the Corvette Z06 and even the ZR1. Installing this may include pipe cutting and welding, as well as the help of a second person

Pro Tip

Before purchasing any muffler, it's highly recommended to find sound clips or listen to the sound they produce in real life. Because mufflers don't offer any obvious horsepower gains, it all comes down to what kind of exhaust note you desire out of your Corvette.

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