My daughter took over our 05 XC70 and it recently developed an exhaust leak. The studs and nuts rotted off the cat/center muffler flange. The flanges are decent enough that they could be reused. Can the center muffler be eliminated? I don't care if it's a little louder and it's after the cats and 02's so it seems like a viable option. This is a low budget repair to get another year or 2 out of the car. I have a welder and half a brain between my ears.

Thanks

 

You may get some droning or a resonance - but if you can weld in a straight pipe yourself - I would try that first.

 

welding in a pipe will work - certainly better than a run to Walmart to pick up some "Muffler Bandage" or taking a can and some hose clamps...LOL.