So I am trying to plan my muffler installation.  I just bought a hushmaster II to hang under the cabin.  I want the exhaust the exit where it currently does mid cowl.

 

The question is how to make the connection.  It seems that if I make rigid connections then I will get fatigue cracks in the exhaust, even if I support the weight of the muffler.  Do the pipes themselves just absorb the vibration of the engine? 

 

I need to use either a slip fit or a v-band clamp to remove the pipe to get the cowl off.  Will either of these provide enough play in the system.

 

Flowmaster also sells a ball-and-socket type of joint. http://www.flowmastermufflers.com/products/index.phpmain_page=product_info&products_id=2317

That seems better in terms of flexibility, but is more costly and will probably let more heat into the cowl, and will need a larger cowl opening (would prefer the slip or v-band joint).

 

Am I worried about nothing?

--
Dave Leonard
Turbo Rotary RV-6 N4VY

 

This cuff joint works on race cars where some degree of movement is required. The springs would have a slack piece of safety wire through then to prevent FOD if a spring breaks, and prevent loss if both springs break.

 

Lynn E. Hanover