As far as stock muffler replacements for the 2.1 go, the German Ernst,
Danish Dansk or the Ansa are all excellent quality and I have used them all
on various Vanagons I've owned.  I currently run an Ansa Muffler on my Westy
for the past 9 years with nary a problem with it.  I keep saying I'm gonna
get around to replacing it with either a Dansk or Ernst or maybe even
another Ansa, but there's been no real need to.  For these, it's just boils
down to what you are willing to spend, I really think you can't go wrong
with any of them.  I'm looking at a Dansk unit on my receiving counter right
now and don't spot any holes where they're not supposed to be ;-)

If you really wanna spend the big bucks ($325 + shipping) for a stainless
steel that is supposed to look and fit like the original, then Terry Kay's
new mufflers he's making might be the ticket, YMMV.

I've used BD's Cat Converters in the past and currently have one on my Westy
I bought in 1999 and installed 5 years ago.  Bolts right in, no
modifications.  Has passed smog everytime since with excellent results.
Good quality unit and the price is right.

Again, YMMV
--
Jim Thompson
84 Westfalia 2.1 "Ole Putt"
73 K Ghia Coupe "Denise"
72 411 Station Wagon "Pug"
oldvolkshome@gmail.com
http://www.oldvolkshome.com
*Have a Happy & SAFE Holiday*
**********************************
On 12/27/06, Jeffrey Clayman <jclayman@massmed.org> wrote:
>
> I noticed a small hole in the back side of my muffler
> and through the heat shield. Is this supposed to be
> there or is this a leak?  Also, anybody have any
> experience with the cheaper of the two mufflers and
> catalytic convertors from bud depot?
> Jeff