Muffler install. Would you get it done at Acura or at a muffler shop?

[RL in Florida]

Good morning.
I am eagerly waiting for delivery of a Taitec GT parallel exhaust from Chris at SOS.
I am going to let someone else do the install, since I lack the tools and knowledge to do it properly.
Should I take it to Acura to get a certified mechanic do the install? Or would a muffler shop be better at it since thats all they do all day? Or am I just getting anal-retentive over a minor issue?
This would be for a 2001 NSX-T, so hopefully the bolts won't be too bad yet.
Thanks in advance for any advice.
Rick

 

[nsxxtreme]

Personally I would do it myself. It takes about 15min. I don't see a reason why a muffler shop couldn't do it.

 

[ScienceofSpeed]

Sometimes it is good to tackle a somewhat easy project as it lets you understand how that part works on the car. It is also very rewarding to be able to reaffirm your machoness by successfully completing said project.

However, the install is very easy, and any competent mechanic can handle the task.

-- Chris

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Revolutionize your NSX with ScienceofSpeed
www.ScienceofSpeed.com | [email protected] | 877-863-4520

 

[NSXLNT]

I tackled headers and exhaust myself ( well, almost ) with little tools and even less previous experience. I did need help with the headers from a friend with way more of both ( Thanks Larry ) , who also showed me some tricks with the exhaust. All in all, the stress level wasn't too bad and I actually did impress myself. Good feeling of accomplishment and I know it was done correctly. Also saved a bundle. And who's going to treat your car better than you?

 

[AaronR]

I put my Taitec on myself too. Five of the six bolts came off no problem, took about 20 minutes. The last bolt (the upper, hard to get to one on the passenger side flange) would not come off. After trying for over an hour I Accidentally broke the stud

Now I need to go to Acura and have it replaced which will probably offset what I would have paid to have the exhaust put on in the first place, but it was fun other than that bolt FWIW.

ps- Side question for the experts
Right now I only have 2 bolts on that flange, is that bad for the car or the exhaust? It seems sealed and doesn't make any leaking noises that I can tell anyhow and the car feels strong and sounds great. If it's not a hazard it would be nice to wait until late next month to fix it when the car get's the pre winter storage service (the dealer is 2 hours away from my house).
TIA
Aaron

 

[NSX2NV]

I too installed my Tailtec GT lightweight myself. I have a 97 so there is only 4 bolts. One of which I had to hacksaw off and drill out. It took a few hours but was well worth it. If I had of given up I don't think I would have attempted to preform any more mods myself. Since then I have installed a DVD stereo system and will be installing the HID lights in a few days.

Definitely try the install yourself, you'll always be smiling when you fire the "X" up.

 

[SexyRed]

Tools: 14mm socket and grease elbow. I rather a muffler shop do it versus dealer.

 

[Jimbo]

Rick,

Deciding whether or not to do it yourself may depend on your tools and equipment.

Obviously, it's going to be a lot easier if you have a lift, or have access to a lift. You can jack up the car, but if you do, be sure to use jack stands and observe the safety rules. There's a few DIY tips on this out there that are specific to the NSX.

You also need the tools (i.e. sockets, ratchets, breaker bar, etc).

I would also highly recommend pre-soaking all the bolts/fasteners with PB Blaster. It's a spray similar to Liquid Wrench, but it's MUCH better. It really works! You can see the goofy looking spray can on the cowl of my Accord...

http://homepage.mac.com/jimanders/.Pictures/AccordProject/DCP_0063.jpg

If possible, spray the fasteners a few times beforehand. This will greatly reduce the chance of breaking a fastener.

When it comes to remove and replace the muffler you may want to have a buddy help you hold and lift.

I'd say try it if you have the stuff.

-Jim

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1992 NSX Red/Blk 5 spd #0330
1991 NSX Blk/Blk Auto #3070 (Sold)
1974 Vette 454 4 spd Wht/Blk
http://homepage.mac.com/jimanders/PhotoAlbum1.html