Is $130 fair for a Magnaflow (can only, not cat back) and installation?

 

it depends. are you getting a stainless muffler or aluminum? that effects the price alot.

 

He didn't say - we were discussing efficiency of the engine and horsepower - not really materials of the unit or aesthetics, or for god's sake the sound it makes or doesn't make.

The tech mentioned a drop & swap can instead of a cat back - said there's no reason for a full cat back if all I want is less restriction/more flow.

I guess stainless is prettier, but what's the difference otherwise? Weight? Longevity/rust? I don't care about anything except efficiency, really.

I guess because I can not weld, the issue is whether or not I can afford it not whether or not it's a good deal? I mean, it'll have to be welded on there sooner or later. I'm just thinking out loud here...

 

^^
that sounds odd, if you purchased a new catback that was 3" piping that would give you more flow and power.

 

Stainless is less rust-prone.

 

I paid about $600 for mine (all parts and labor for that price), but my complete system is stainless steel and all pipes were custom bent so that I would not have any fit issues. All welds on my exhaust, no clamps. The shop I went to only does custom exhaust work and they do great work!