You know, layback40, you might be right. Somewhere in its long history, someone might have welded the connection.

I'll see if the tightened clamp does not resolve the noise/exhaust leak problem. Then it would be what you suggest for part II. I also have some muffler cast handy, just in case.

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1991 300E 124.030 103.983KE 722358 03 412178
207K

1979 240D 123.123 250K (Project car)

2000 Ford Ranger, 187K

2015 Dodge Ram 1500 EcoDiesel 37K