This morning my 83 300D was making some strange noises so i looked underneath the car to find the exhaust pipe just forward of the last muffler is almost rusted off, looking like it was cut with a knife, but with maybe 2 inches still attached.
I was dropping off the car anyways this morning to have front suspension noices looked at and the oil pan gasket replaced. My mechanic told me he may not be able to repair the exhaust. Anybody have some suggestions to where i might have to take it? Does any national chains work on these vechiles, or is the dealership a must? Anybody out there have this type of work done to the exhaust latley, can it be replaced in sections like most american cars? I see you can buy the parts seperately from performance products. Any suggestions, comments welcome

I would recommend the Timevalve stainless-steel replacement. On your car, I believe the pipe you need replaced is part of the rear muffler assembly (probably around $250):
http://www.timevalve.com/cat/us/p12b1.html

If your muffler is still sound, I have found that local exhaust shops are more willing to make little repairs than the chains. It helps that it is a diesel -- they are less afraid to weld--won't insist you purchase the bolt-together assemblies. Cheers, Andrew Seidel.

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86 560SEC
85 500SEC Lorinser
83 300D Turbo
75 240D

Thanks!
They are ending up doing both mufflers, almost the entire system except the front pipe for $359.
But they also feel the center link, idler arm, and right tir rod needs done. OUCH! I just want the squeeking to stop! They are also changing oil and replacing the oil pan gasket. I hope this takes care of the car for a while cause i can't afford this!