OK. So my LS Swap BMW e36 Racecar is obnoxiously loud. Like the loudest thing at every track event loud. I am sick of not knowing how to weld so it looks like I need to buy a welder to weld some new exhaust pieces onto my existing axle dump dual 3" magnaflow setup. Muffler currently placed under the driveshaft at the y pipe location as shown in the photo below. Wouldnt mind getting below NCM's 103 dB threshold if possible....
Buy me around a $500 welder (new that I can order today) and bonus points if you have a suggestion on what muffler/resonator/etc to add under the trunk area to mate up to the axle area downturns. Also, what wire/gas/etc do I need to pickup while I am shopping. Lastly, current exhaust is some sort of aluminized steel, suggestion on a pipe pre-bend kit to buy to cut pieces from in order to get what I need accomplished without a bender?
I know this is asking a lot but most of you dont have day jobs apparently so thought it was worth a shot :-).
Hit me up with questions or followup requests to help you help me!
Sound clip here: https://www.dropbox.com/s/l47aiav1cirs9xq/2019-11-09%2013.08.55.mp4?dl=0
Lsxus
New Reader
7/22/21 3:50 p.m.
I've been using the E36 M3 out of my eastwood MIG for the last few years and it's done really well. Mostly exhaust work actually.
https://www.eastwood.com/mig-welder-110vac-135a-output.html
I also second the vibrant stuff.
Second on the Eastwood MIG 135.
Here's an LM thread about welders I started like a year ago. It's got some good suggestions. No help on your pipe questions though...
Got nothing for you regarding the exhaust per se, but I bought a Hobart 140 refurb a couple of years ago (2017) and have used it since to build a bunch of metal workbenches, re-floor a Volvo Amazon, and do some exhaust work. Currently $469: https://www.hobartweldshop.com/factory-refurbished-hobart-handler-140-mig-wire-welder/
You'll need to add a gas tank to that price or use flux-core wire. 0.030" is pretty universal but 0.024" might work better for sheet metal and exhaust.
Liking that Hobart factory reconditioned unit. Think that's the way to go. Do I need gas for it or just running flux wire while I learn on an exhaust is OK Dokey? Need to browse helmets now.
$500 will get you a decent 110v Lincoln unit.
As for exhaust stuff I would recommend band clamps where possible. Makes for easy disassembly later. They are not cheep but are sure nice when you need to take an exhaust on and off.
For some reason I can never get band clamps to stay sealed/non leaking. I end up putting vbands on pretty much everything. Definitely more expensive but super simple to assemble; especially if you get the ones with the locking lip. $20-30 for a clamp/flange assembly off amazon.
Second the recommendation for hobart handler 140. It even welds thin aluminum wihtout a spool gun.
You need a muffler you cannot see through to knock down the volume. I have been pleased with the dynomax 'tubro' style mufllers on my LS1-KART. they are as compact as can be, too.
