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Another Resonator Install

 I finally got rid of the factory muffler. After reading all the excellent posts on this mod and taking advantage of great tips from Chuck and Barry (Chuck Berry?) I ended up with an Aero 5050XL. I pretty much knocked off Chuck's parts list with a couple changes. I was able to do the install without using any flex pipe which I might add is not what I would describe as flexible.

Here's the order of my install from the 4" turbo downpipe:
1. 4"-5" adapter;
2. 8" connector
3. 8" 90
4. 10" 90
5. Resonator
6. 12" 45
7. 8" connector
8. Tip
* Used four hangers.

My hat is off to you guys that did this job without removing the fender. I still struggled with it with the fender removed and must have crawled under that a hundred times.
jor
93 225
95 300
97 270
99 320

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #1
I cheated and had the Cummins shop guy weld up a 5050xl exhaust system.  Expensive.  Beautiful welds and hanger setup.

I am not as good of an engineer and fabricator as JOR is.

Sure leaves a nice empty hole where the muffler used to be.  Nice spot for a welded up  Aluminum firewood box.  Could be wider than the door opening if one were so inclined.

"Riding and rejoicing"
Bob
1997 U320 40' Mid entry, build 5132,  wtbi ce27, 4th owner
2007 Solara convertible
2 prodeco tech outlaw ss electric bikes

1095 watts solar
08 Ls 460 and a sc430
2000 Ford F-250 superduty 4x4

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #2
I finally got rid of the factory muffler. After reading all the excellent posts on this mod and taking advantage of great tips from Chuck and Barry (Chuck Berry?) I ended up with an Aero 5050XL. I pretty much knocked off Chuck's parts list with a couple changes. I was able to do the install without using any flex pipe which I might add is not what I would describe as flexible.

Here's the order of my install from the 4" turbo downpipe:
1. 4"-5" adapter;
2. 8" connector
3. 8" 90
4. 10" 90
5. Resonator
6. 12" 45
7. 8" connector
8. Tip
* Used four hangers.

My hat is off to you guys that did this job without removing the fender. I still struggled with it with the fender removed and must have crawled under that a hundred times.
jor

How is the sound? let's hear a you tube video....Nice job....Working on the gravel, didn't look like it was fun.Your a brave soul
Chris
Chris and Tammy White  CDA Idaho
Previous owners 1997 U295 36' 3126 Cat 300 HP Build # 4998
Former Foretravel tech & RVIA certified tech
Former owner Custom Satellite home/RV satellites 
Former owner Vans LTD  van conversions
Unemployed, panhandler, drag racer NHRA #6348

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #3
I personally like the sound of mine, but at Phoenix my brother was guiding me from the rear and said if that noisy thing didn't add a 100 hp, to put the stock muffler back on.
Jor, you might find that the turn down tip makes a dust cloud. I modified mine as I couldn't see out the left rear backing out my driveway.
By the way I still have the flex left over also.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #4
If you make the tip straight out it can add horsepower?
"Riding and rejoicing"
Bob
1997 U320 40' Mid entry, build 5132,  wtbi ce27, 4th owner
2007 Solara convertible
2 prodeco tech outlaw ss electric bikes

1095 watts solar
08 Ls 460 and a sc430
2000 Ford F-250 superduty 4x4

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #5
JOR—You always do things the Hard Way. Gravel. Show off! I give you extra credit for toughness and tenacity. How's the growl?
Paul & Kathleen
1995 U320c SE 40'
Build 4681 --Cummins M11 /17511
"That Irish Girl"
Red MINI " 40"

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #6
How much did the stock muffler weigh?
Old Phart Phred, EIEIO
89 GV ored 36' #3405 300 hp cat 3208 ATAAC side radiator, mountain tamer exhaust brake

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #7
If you make the tip straight out it can add horsepower?
Bob....Your so funny..... 8)
Chris and Tammy White  CDA Idaho
Previous owners 1997 U295 36' 3126 Cat 300 HP Build # 4998
Former Foretravel tech & RVIA certified tech
Former owner Custom Satellite home/RV satellites 
Former owner Vans LTD  van conversions
Unemployed, panhandler, drag racer NHRA #6348

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #8
Chris. How does it sound? Well, that's a good question. I had drained my radiator in anticipation of flushing the cooling system. My plan was to put some water in and fire it up. Well... (this gets a little complicated) I had intended on changing the thermostat at the same time so I had pulled the hose and fitting off the block. Uh, oh... no thermostat. Guess I better check the book. Turns out I have two thermostats and they are located in a housing below this fitting. No sweat. I'll just put some sealer on the gasket and be good to go. Where is this story going? Well, in order to remove the hose fitting I had to remove the coolant filter. And now the coolant filter has disappeared. It's like some kind of conspiracy. I've got one on the way so soon I'll fire it up.

Crane. I never thought about the turndown-dust issue. I might just do your modification as I live at the end of a 1 1/2 mile unmaintained dirt road. I can just get this 34 footer into our driveway.

Paul: Working on gravel is invigorating!

Old: The factory muffler weighed 42#. I thought it was going to be a lot heavier and was all set up to receive lots of weight. It's no big deal. Anyone taking down a muffler like this one can easily do it by hand.
jor
93 225
95 300
97 270
99 320

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #9
The U320 weighed a lot more than 42 pounds and was a much larger boat anchor
"Riding and rejoicing"
Bob
1997 U320 40' Mid entry, build 5132,  wtbi ce27, 4th owner
2007 Solara convertible
2 prodeco tech outlaw ss electric bikes

1095 watts solar
08 Ls 460 and a sc430
2000 Ford F-250 superduty 4x4

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #10
Well, that's a good question. I had drained my radiator in anticipation of flushing the cooling system. My plan was to put some water in and fire it up. Well... (this gets a little complicated) I had intended on changing the thermostat at the same time so I had pulled the hose and fitting off the block. Uh, oh... no thermostat. Guess I better check the book. Turns out I have two thermostats and they are located in a housing below this fitting. No sweat. I'll just put some sealer on the gasket and be good to go. Where is this story going? Well, in order to remove the hose fitting I had to remove the coolant filter. And now the coolant filter has disappeared. It's like some kind of conspiracy.
Thanks jor I was getting the feeling I was inept because my plans seem to mirror yours, just one part short of a full deck. Got 5 projects in a holding pattern, waiting on something or other.
Old Phart Phred, EIEIO
89 GV ored 36' #3405 300 hp cat 3208 ATAAC side radiator, mountain tamer exhaust brake

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #11
Jor, as long as you're in the neighborhood there might want to take a look at the oft overlooked short coolant ell nicely tucked in behind the alternator more or less. 
"Not so  long ago we were a nation of risk takers, riding five million pounds of  thrust straight into space."  Joe Gresh
Chuck Pearson
1996 U295
2018 Can Am X3 TurboRS

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #12
How is the sound? let's hear a you tube video...
Chris

Mine was noticeable, wife says she can hear me a street over.. No way of sneaking into the rv park at midnight.

Did it help? Not sure but I know it didnt hurt. Bed isnt as hot for sure and sounds good..

Weight on the resonator is probably 10 lb? maybe 15lb? No problem compared to that trash can lead weight I took out.. 

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #13
Presently we are having a mechanic install a resonator and adding the storage compartment in the area where the factory muffler resided. Can't wait to hear and see it! We get her back the week after thanksgiving, ...it's a long list this time ...2 ACs, new refrigerator, lighting, radiator replacement... I'm expecting to get her back in time for the Florida Motorcade rally.
Michael Hayley; Barry Brennan
2001 U320, 36', IFS, build #5909
Buster and Shelby, (Boxers)

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #14
Nice Job John! My only concern would be the omission of the stainless flex after the turbo. I don't know how much the engine can move under changing load conditions, but I would wonder if the hangers have enough give to make up for the use of rigid tubing in place of the flex. By the way, the giant trash can used on the ISC appears to be three times the size of the muffler you removed! I am quite sure it weighs way more than 40lbs. Thanks for the parts list... ^.^d
Don
The selected media item is not currently available.
Don & Tys
1999 U270 3602 WTFE #5402
Xtreme Stage 1 w/Headlight, Step Conversion, etc.
2009 Honda Fit Sport with Navi
Freedom is NOT "just another word for nothing left to lose"... with apologies to Kris Kristofferson

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #15
Quote
ft overlooked short coolant ell nicely tucked in behind the alternator more or less.
Checked it out. Looks good. Glad I don't have to change that thing. Gracias, Chuck.

Quote
but I would wonder if the hangers have enough give to make up for the use of rigid tubing in place of the flex.

Don, I was thinking that the hanger/isolators should have enough give to allow for a little engine movement but I will watch it closely. I still have the flex which I could use if need be. Thanks for the warning.
jor
93 225
95 300
97 270
99 320

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #16
Yes, you need to check.

Obviously, the further from center of engine, the more movement that small degree change caused by torque and the slight play in the engine mounts (there to absorb vibration) makes.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #17
Installed a resonator about 2 years ago. NO flex used at the turbo. About 15K miles so far with no issues. That includes a trip to Alaska on less than stellar roads.

Steve
Steve & Sandy
2003 U320 4220 WCDS, build#6160
Motorcade #17794
USMC '67-'71

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #18
Presently we are having a mechanic install a resonator and adding the storage compartment in the area where the factory muffler resided. Can't wait to hear and see it! We get her back the week after thanksgiving, ...it's a long list this time ...2 ACs, new refrigerator, lighting, radiator replacement... I'm expecting to get her back in time for the Florida Motorcade rally.

Michael have you had your mechanic apply pressure to the inner cooler?  I thought mine was ok until I applied pressure (10lb) and I started finding holes in it.  Atlas radiator is 8 weeks out, they have to order the core, which is 4 weeks out, then they build the ends and put it together, another 4 weeks.  I have aluminum epoxy coming and plan to try and patch it for one last trip.  If it won't hold 40 pounds then we will just be waiting for the new one and won't make Q, I was hoping to meet some of you guys but I guess there is always next year if things don't work out.
BTW if I remember correctly the new one will be 1685 + shipping
Chris
1999 U 320 DGFE
Build Number 5523
Chris & Elka Lang
In the field, Lonoke AR

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #19
Chris, I have to confess that I barely know what an intercooler is.  I got passed over when He was  handing out mechanical abilities. I've learned to operate a Porter Cable polisher, though.
Michael Hayley; Barry Brennan
2001 U320, 36', IFS, build #5909
Buster and Shelby, (Boxers)

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #20
It is also known as a CAC charged air cooler
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #21
 I did go to Wikipedia last night and read an article on intercoolers. I'm on a mission to learn. I've got 18 months to retirement, full-time, and Alaska. I'd better  learn what those thingies are back there.
Michael Hayley; Barry Brennan
2001 U320, 36', IFS, build #5909
Buster and Shelby, (Boxers)

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #22
Michael,

Educating yourself on all aspects of coach ownership is a rewarding pursuit, in more ways than one.  One of the greatest technical resources we, as Foretravel owners have, is the beamalarm.com Motorhome Technical Help compendium.  I know you are probably already aware of Barry's masterpiece, but for newer Forum members it is well worth repeating.  I don't think Barry Brideau ever gets sufficient praise for gathering so much useful information into one easily accessed location.  Reading through the articles contained therein is the quickest way to get up to speed on owning a Foretravel.  We have had our coach for about 5 years, and although I refer to beamalarm.com several times a week, I have a long way to go before I can say I have read it all.  I'll add the link below for any newer members who might see this post:

Foretravel Motorhome technical help and information links
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #23
As a friend of mine likes to say:  "Strong work"!  Looks very professional.  I didn't need the "flex" pipe either, but did use insulating wrap and a turbo blanket to keep the heat down in the bedroom.  As for sound, I usually hit the accelerator in tunnels and underpasses. 
2000 U320 mid entry  #5688
2006 Jeep Liberty


USMCR retired
SDFD retired
FEMA US&R TF8

Re: Another Resonator Install

Reply #24
I'll take your suggestion and reread the beamkalarm section! Good idea.
Michael Hayley; Barry Brennan
2001 U320, 36', IFS, build #5909
Buster and Shelby, (Boxers)