I cut the fire wall yesterday nite to allow clearance for the muffler. I cut a horizontal line 1 7/8" below the center line of the engine then after roughing out the cuts, I finalised them by wrapping course sand paper around a 2 1/2" cylinder and cleaned up the opening. This created a semi circle that the round muffler blody sits in allowing for good airflow all aournd. Tonight I will add some shear webs and gussets to the subframe to strenghen the area I cut away and then use thin aluminum to cover the opening. I will use liquid metal to get a good bond and the aluminum will actually add strenght due to its round shape.

One thing though, it looks as if the muffler is going to rub the cowl right at the corners so I will have to cut the cowl away abit I am sure... So close.. lol... However.. if it is just a small amount I may be able to have the muffler modified so I will have to mount the cowl first to be certain.

Best regards,
Randy