I recently purchased a '99 ML430 and am looking for a good exhaust shop to do some modifications. MB of Naperville would/could not do it and I'm reluctant to take it to a Merlin's. I'm wondering if anyone can share their experiences with me regarding mufffler upgrades or dual pipe modifications in Illinois. I live in Kane County but I'm willing to drive to anywhere but Chicago addresses. I see the posts about "body shops" around here but I want a true dedicated Mercedes person who is willing to know the factory mounts and do high quality work for a long-lasting result. I thank you in advance for responding in this thread. I'm new to your culture but not new to message/forum boards. I want to feel the love and not be subject to the typical newbie flames that I receive on other boards. I'm undergoing a significant mod project and have experience with other vehicles ('92 GMC Typhoon, '98 328i, '02 Xterra SE-SC). I'm obsessed with tinkering but exhaust work I cannot do.

Stick with the OEM because there is really no room for improvement. MB is not a Ford or a Chevy, that will get 15 hp with a muffler swap. I'll be hardpressed to say that you might get 4 or 5 hp with added noise. If you want to bite the bullet, try the traditional MB tuners but whatever your decision, make sure it is powdercoated to prevent rust. Any MB dealer or MB shop will know how to install an aftermarket muffler.

I got the dualies put on this week by Merlin's in St. Charles. I'll attach some photos soon and let you know how it sounds. They did great work.