If I remove the muffler, must I use new gaskets when replacing
 

My car has developed a very annoying rattle that makes the engine sound like $%@#. I have finally figured out that it is either a piece of engine tin over the muffler or the muffler bracket or the muffler itself. The exhaust is in good condition and consists of SSI and a SS bananna buffler (not sure brand as I can't find any markings). The rattle is intermittant and has reduced quite a bit lately.

When I push up on the exhaust, the rattle goes away.

I also noticed a slight crumple in the driver side bumper shock so I'm thinking that the car may have been hit in the past although there are no visable signs on the outside.

So, I want to remove the muffler so that I can find the problem - should I order new muffler gaskets first or can I re-use. I would normally re-order but I really want to do this on Saturday and I've run out of time to order.

Thanks for any and all advice.......Vern

you will be disappointed if you don't replace them.

It's a good idea...

maybe you do and maybe you don't. but the gaskets are cheap, so might as well replace them.

Any muffler shops open on saturday? They will have a match for yours.

Thanks. Generally I would always use new gaskets - for any project. In this case, I was just out of time. I will check locally so see if I can find a set.

it depends on the type of gasket that is on there to begin with. In the past ive resused crush type gaskets without an issue multiple times without an issue (wrx uppipe & downpipe installs) as well as well as graphite types.