Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Has anyone purchased a complete exhaust system for their 1950 2301 4dr sedan with the 288 engine, recently? I'm trying to get the best system for the best value. Kanter, Max Merritt, Classic Exhaust and Waldron sell complete systems. Any opinions on their exhaust systems. I'm just looking for product evaluation. Thanks

I've had experiences with both Kanter and Waldron and both were completely satisfactory.

Unless you specify to cut the tail pipe for lowest shipping cost, Waldron's pipe is one piece and is more authentic. Leaving it long makes the shipping go by freight and is much higher. Classic automatically cuts the tailpipe in two pieces so it can be shipped UPS. I don't know if there is an option to leave it long but the charge is lower and IMO, if the car is not torn apart, not having to fit in that single long piece also makes it a bit easier to install. Waldron has all the clamps etc so you can buy and have them shipped with the system while with Classic you need to find your own.

If the tailpipe is cut will it need to be welded or do they make the cut ends slip-fit? If pipe needs to be welded then it is not a do it yourself job. thanks

The Classic offering for the 47 Custom is a slip joint and is located a few inches down from the top of the hump as it passes over the rear axle. I would think the other models are made the same way.

Good Evening...When I needed to purchase a new exhaust system for our 1949 288 Deluxe, I looked around and then I used a 36" Glass Pack Muffler and new pipe from Midas not far from where I live. I showed them the parts book and the design and what they installed is a pretty good copy. Ernie

Dear All,

I used the recommended replacement muffler from Max Merritt on my 49 coupe (model 2365) and it worked out well. They have them built from scratch at a local shop as close to original specifications as possible.

The original mufflers on these cars were straight through, meaning that you could visibly look right through down the center of it. This was done so that the right amount of backpressure is applied in the exhaust system.

Ernie's suggestion is also a good one and I first tried the fiberglass pack before I ordered the replacement from Max Merritt. The glass pack worked well but was a little louder than what I wanted from the car.