'14 Forester Muffler Replacement/Upgrade

[Daskuppler]

Hello Everyone,

 

My Forester developed a nasty rattle which was tracked down to a failed tack weld and rust on the heat shield above the muffler.  Attempted fixes failed so I dropped the muffler and looked around.  the seam on top of the muffler is failing and split open and the rest of the heat shield is toast as a result.  Does anyone have suggestions on which muffler I should put on?  I do not want stock, I would rather upgrade and get a little more high end torque/hp, even if it is negligible.  I'll sacrifice the low end torque since the engine is frequently revved pretty high (lots of high altitude and mountainous driving)...What can I say, I like the skinny pedal.  Also, would I need to reroute pipe or could a new one just be welded up in place?  I have a trailer hitch installed which does reduce available space a little.  I could potentially gain access to a welder, but I'm not going to be able to bend pipe to do any further modifications.  I'm looking to increase sound but there's no need to be obnoxious.

Edited November 27, 2020 by Daskuppler

[Daskuppler]

I'm looking at the Nameless axleback 5" muffler bolt on kit.  Does anyone have any experience with it?  Looks like it is popular on the XT and relatively new for the NA motors.

[GeneralDisorder]

You will gain absolutely nothing (not even a negligible amount) from a muffler on an NA engine. You will not lose anything either. The best argument for an aftermarket setup is that it will be stainless. Beyond that and of course fixing the damaged/rotted stock part, it's a complete waste of time. 

GD

[Numbchux]

Yep, only thing you will "gain" is noise...

[idosubaru]

What they said. If you want it get it. There’s   nothing practical to think about besides what GD mentioned.

[Rooster2]

Agree with others, nothing to be gained by going to a less restrictive muffler, except it will be louder. I found out when I tried a glass pack muffler.