Kim,
The Alfa Spider muffler layout, from the engine backwards, is:
1. Catalytic converter
2. Center muffler
3. Rear muffler
(International Auto original parts diagram:
http://www.international-auto.com/original-type-exhaust/exhaust-systems.cfm.
You'll need to identify your model Alfa to see the diagram).
My experience with replacing the Center and Rear mufflers in my long
departed '86 Spider, was that it is best to get the parts from a vendor
specializing in Alfa parts. Yes, Midas/Meinke have units that they say
will fit your Alfa, but usually they do not fit very well at all. And then
you get rattles, leaks, maybe performance issues, etc. with them and might
not last as long.
The Cat. converter is a long lasting item and probably doesn't need to be
replaced. Before Cat. converters were mandated on all cars, Alfa did have
a small front muffler where the Cat. converter now resides. My guess is
that your friend found a hole in the Center muffler and is calling it the
front muffler.
My suggestion is to buy both the Center and Rear muffler since they are of
the same age. If the Center one has worn out, the Rear probably isn't that
far behind. And since there is lots of rusted nuts/bolts on
well-established mufflers, it is easier to remove the old set as a unit -
and replacement is easier and quicker. You'll need a few gaskets, maybe a
muffler hanger, and some new nuts/bolts to go along with the mufflers.
And you should have some one who knows how to properly install a Spider
muffler system for there are some tricks to getting the Center and Rear
muffler to connect correctly without undue stress on the assembly.
Sure, you can drive it with all the noise - a good way to impress your
neighbors ... and other 16 year olds !!
Bruce
'73 GTV
>
> Date: Sat, 19 Jan 2013 13:28:18 -0800
> From: "Kim Life" <[email protected]>
> Subject: [alfa] 9a Spider Veloce Muffler
>
> I need a new muffler. I know this because all of a sudden, I sound like a
> 16-year old in a beefed-up hotrod!
>
>
>
> A friend looked at it and said it's the front muffler. I have three
> questions:
>
>
>
> 1. Do I have to order special Alfa parts, or can I take it to a
> muffler
> repair place and they'll have what I need?
>
> 2. If I do need to order special parts, what comprises the "front
> muffler"?
>
> 3. Can I still drive it while I'm waiting for parts?
>
>
>
> Thanks!
>
> Kim
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