I've stopped laughing, having done nearly similar things..... it's good you kept your sense of humor.

MY *fix* to the situation..... announce to EVERYONE, in a LOUD, PROUD, voice that;

"This is the newest method to mount mufflers to enhance the smoke trail, cool the exhaust, create more scale-sound, and make it look more realistic." (or words to that effect)

NEVER reveal that it was a "mistake"..... not needed!!!!!!!!!!