Exhaust Flex Pipe Options: Cheapo OEM, Universal, ?

[MrCreosote]

I can get an OE pipe from Auto Supermarket for $119 but I can get one for $49 from Exhaust Distribution. Needless to say, I found some complaints with the ED such as occasionally "part didn't fit" or "warranty issues." But still 98% positive.

There are universals available locally but the way my pipe is made (OE Ford, 2000 3.8) the flex joints are right at the flange and the cat - there is no stub to clamp a universal onto.

I might be able to fit a uni OVER the cat pipe, but I'd have to come up with a uni flange for the other end.

Any suggestions would be welcome. Needless to say, I'm trying to save as much $$$ as possible bud also don't want to put junk on. Any lifetime warranty stuff out there too?

Thanks
Tom

EDIT: My concern is the robustness of the actual bellows. The OE has huge radial rings with about a thickness (OD-ID) that is about 1.5" This allows a lot of flex with little stress - this means lots of life. If they don't give you the thick rings, you get a "stiff" joint that fails quickly due to much higher stresses.

[Grabber5.0]

Given the small area, it seems you are going to create more trouble than it's worth. And if you have to add additional parts to make something fit, or have to replace it again, you might not save as much as you think.

-- Sent from my Palm Pre using Forums

[MrCreosote]

Actually, the OE pipe is the most difficult to install since you have to remove the old pipe from inside the cat pipe. I can do that kind of stuff - I have the tools and skill, but it is simply extra work.

If I can use a universal that goes over the cat pipe, the job becomes fast and trivial and at about 1/4 to 1/2 the cost of a branded OE replacement.

While just about everyone on this site uses universals and Chinese OE's, I'm sure there are some that are OK.

[12Ounce]

Just for info, in case some have missed it: The repair/shop manuals recommend that as we do repairs on the exhaust system ... we always support the ends of the flex-pipe so that it never "dangles". Apparently its easy to damage once it has been in service.

[wiswind]

That is not easy to replace.....the muffler end may need the blue wrench (torch).
I bought a Walker brand...and seem to remember it costing about $100.