diesel muffler compared to gas muffler

[mtnbiktn]

I am not trying to alter the emission system. My question is usually on a gas engine, just changing the muffler would not make a noticeable increase in power unless you installed headers as well. Is a diesel system different in that respect?

[ddog]

You are correct that just changing mufflers will not result in a noticable increase in power, Gas or Diesel. That being said the factory Ford muffler is an Offset internally baffled muffler to help make it quiet, but is also restrictive.

Exhaust restrication in a diesel can result in higher Exhaust Gas Temperatures (EGTs). If your keeping the van stock, changing the muffler to a straight thru style (you can see through it) will give you lower EGTs and perhaps slightly faster spool on the turbo. It will also be louder.

Headers for turbodiesel are pricy and have limited effect since the turbo is between the headers and the exhaust (good for people trying to get every last bit, not necessary for average joe)

If you plan to chip or modify you definitely need a straight thru muffler at a minimum to keep EGTs in check. An EGT guage is a MUST if modding. As someone else mentioned in another thread, hopping up a turbodiesel is easy, just add more fuel... this also adds heat that has to get out. For mild modding and chips up to 80HP boost, the walker BTM in place of the stock muffler should be fine. Depends on your program/programmer/tuner. Jody at DpTuner I think has the most experience writing Van Specific Tunes if you want to go that route.

If your keeping the engine all stock, keep the exhaust stock unless you just like the noise. The '03 I just Sold, I replaced the stock muffler and tailpipe and a portion of the midpipe with 4" exhaust and muffler.Left Down pipe and midpipe stock. Never chipped the truck. While I liked the noise around town and seemed to give slightly better throttle response, There were no verifiable gains including MPG to justify the extra noise. On the highway at speed there were certain rpm ranges to avoid due to what I consider objectionable droning.

I was modding to mod and had fun doing it, but had the van not sold the stock exhaust was going back on before my next road trip.

People (Vans) with the Walker BTM 3.5" mufler in place of there stock muffler so far have not reported any Drone issues. You may or May not have drone (I did ) using larger diameter components or Aftermarket components.

ddog