After upgrading to a new big block V8 in my classic muscle car, I knew it was time to upgrade the exhaust system to unleash the full potential. That’s when I discovered the Flowmaster 50 Series Big Block performance muffler. In this blog, I’ll share my first-hand experience installing and testing out this powerful muffler on my souped-up ride.
Why I Needed A New Muffler For My Big Block
The old stock muffler on my car just wasn’t cutting it anymore after dropping in the new high-performance big block engine. I could immediately tell the exhaust note was severely muffled, restricting airflow and limiting power. It was time to upgrade to an aftermarket muffler specifically designed for big block V8 engines.
The Flowmaster 50 Series caught my eye because it’s engineered for vehicles with big block displacement engines up to 500 CID. Flowmaster is one of the top names in performance mufflers, so I knew the 50 Series was designed to handle the power demands of my monster V8.
Unboxing The Beastly Flowmaster 50 Series
When the big Flowmaster box arrived, I couldn’t wait to tear into it. The 50 Series muffler felt super solid and robust in my hands with its handsome painted steel casing. Weighing in at a brawny 33 lbs, this muffler definitely has the mass to take on the thundering force of a big block.
I chose the **** version with 4″ inlet/outlets to maximize airflow. The fully welded construction looked flawless, and the fittings accommodate 2.5″ pipes. Overall, the 50 Series looked and felt like a true performance muffler ready to be pushed hard.
Time To Get This Big Boy Installed
With my stock muffler removed, it was go time for installation. The Flowmaster 50 slipped on easily and bolted right into place. I did need an exhaust shop to fabricate some custom pipes and tips to complete the system.
The 4″ tubing maintains maximum airflow while the special Flowmaster interior baffle design scavenges spent gasses. This significantly reduces backpressure compared to stock mufflers.
After everything was securely mounted, I was eager to fire up the engine and hear this beast roar!
Firing Up My Big Block With The New Flowmaster
The moment had arrived. I turned the key and hit the start button…the rumbling idle shook the garage instantly. I revved the engine and let me tell you – the Flowmaster 50 Series unleashed a thunderous roar from my big block V8!
The sound was POWERFUL yet controlled, thanks to the acoustically tuned chambers inside the 50 Series. No annoying drone or rasp – just a deep, chest-pounding rumble signaling pure unrestricted horsepower.
My classic muscle car sounded better than ever with the Flowmaster 50 Series Big Block snarling out back. Now it was time to hit the streets and really test it out!
Aggressive Acceleration With The 50 Series Flowmaster
I took my car out for a long test drive to experience the performance benefits of the Flowmaster 50 Series Big Block muffler. Accelerating hard from a stop, the V8 roared with authority and the rear tires violently hooked.
The sound under wide open throttle was incredible! The Flowmaster allowed my engine’s full range to be heard and felt as I carved through gears. The interior resonance was prominent but not overbearing.
Compared to the stock muffler, acceleration felt noticeably stronger at all speeds with the Flowmaster. Clearly the reduced backpressure was allowing my newly built big block V8 to breathe and make power!
Highway Cruising With Improved Sound Quality
Cruising at 70 mph on the highway, my car had a refined rumble from the Flowmaster 50 Series. There was zero drone which can be annoying on long drives. The interior resonance was pleasant and never distracting.
The 50 Series gave my big block V8 the perfect muscle car idle and highway cruising sound: subdued but still with a little attitude when you get on the throttle. Overall, the Flowmaster dramatically improved the sound quality in all driving conditions.
Increased Fuel Efficiency Thanks To Reduced Backpressure
An unexpected benefit of the Flowmaster 50 Series Big Block was improved fuel economy. By reducing exhaust backpressure, my engine could breathe and burn fuel more efficiently.
After 1,000 miles of mixed driving, I calculated almost a 2 MPG improvement with the Flowmaster muffler versus stock. The engine was working less thanks to the free-flowing 50 Series. Considering this is a performance upgrade, I was pleased to gain mpg’s in the process!
Outstanding Durability Over The Long Haul
Now with 15,000 miles on my car with the Flowmaster 50 Series, the muffler has held up flawlessly even under race conditions. The thick gauge steel construction and Quality welds ensure this muffler can take years of hardcore use.
Despite Chicago’s harsh winter weather and salted roads, the Flowmaster still looks and functions like new with no rust or other issues. For the money, I’m thoroughly impressed with the durability and longevity of my Flowmaster 50 Series Big Block.
Improved Handling and Road Grip Thanks to Sound
An unexpected performance benefit I noticed was better handling and acceleration on my muscle car with the Flowmaster 50 Series. How is this possible from just a muffler?
The aggressive exhaust note provides instant auditory feedback as I push my car harder. I can hear exactly when traction is being lost and modulate the throttle. The roar of the Flowmaster helps me feel more connected to the mechanics of my car.
Overall, the 50 Series has made my vehicle more responsive and predictable when pushed to its limits. The sound transforms the driving experience for the better.
Vital Engine Health Feedback Through The Flowmaster Sound
As an experienced auto enthusiast, I can diagnose engine issues just by listening to subtle changes in exhaust sound. Since installing the Flowmaster 50 Series Big Block, I can monitor engine health closer than ever.
The unrestricted sound exposes valvetrain noise, spark knock, and other mechanical issues before they become serious. On a long road trip recently, I noticed some slight pinging under acceleration that alerted me to an impending issue.
After an injector cleaning service, the pinging disappeared – disaster averted! The Flowmaster may help me avoid breakdowns through early audible detection of problems.
Standout Looks Get Compliments and Questions
The bold Flowmaster 50 Series muffler gets a lot of attention at car shows and cruising main street. The race-inspiredexternals with embossed logo attract questions from curious onlookers.
I enjoy chatting about my Flowmaster upgrade – it shows I have a serious performance muffler designed for big displacement V8s. The compliments keep coming on the look and rumbling sound of my Flowmaster exhaust system.
For enthusiasts like me, the Flowmaster50 Series is an eye-catching muffler that sparks conversations with fellow gearheads. The looks and sound make a statement: myclassic muscle car means business!
Considerations For Potential Buyers
While I’ve had an outstanding experience upgrading to the Flowmaster 50 Series Big Block muffler, it’s not the right choice for every vehicle. Here are some important considerations for buyers thinking about purchasing this muffler:
- Designed for high performance big block V8s – best suited for large displacement (400+ CID) engines
- Significant exhaust sound – appreciated by enthusiasts but may violate local noise ordinances
- Requires custom fabrication/installation for many applications vs direct bolt-on
- Big and heavy – weighs 33 lbs and may require chassis modifications
- 4″ inlet/outlet diameters need matching pipes to avoid flow restrictions
- Not intended for daily drivers or quiet vehicles – this is a serious performance muffler
- Legal for off-road use only – not 50-state street legal unless specially modified
Overall, I recommend the Flowmaster 50 Series for muscle car or truck owners wanting maximum power from their big block V8. It’s a beast of a muffler ready to unleash the true potential of high-performance engines. Just be prepared for loud and proud exhaust noise!
Unleash Your Big Block Power with Flowmaster
For those running a built big block V8 like me, unlock your engine’s full potential with the Flowmaster 50 Series Big Block muffler. This high-flowing powerhouse significantly reduces backpressure while delivering the iconic Flowmaster sound.
Whether you’re an enthusiast driver or racer, this muffleroptimizes big block performance. You’ll also get noticed thanks to the Flowmaster’s imposing looks and rumble.
So shed that restrictive stock muffler and feel the strength of your souped-up big block V8 with the Flowmaster 50 Series. This mandrel-bent beauty brings the thunder on the street or track! Just be prepared to tear up the blacktop when you drop the hammer in your ride. The Flowmaster 50 will have your big block roaring like the beast it was meant to be!
