I recently ran into the spontaneous breakage of the front exhaust pipe ('94 pickup), which cracked at an already existing weld repair and so is toast and I need to replace the pipe and associated gaskets.

Would it be worth replacing the muffler assembly at the same time? This would entail the task of unbolting a badly corroded downstream o2 sensor (or acquiring a new sensor despite their cost is as much as the whole muffler assembly).

This section seems to be holding up, however maybe it's a no brainer while the whole system is out anyway?

 

I just went down to the local exhaust shop and had a catback made. Took the muffler off my other car because it was too god damn loud and put that muffler on the 22re and works fine on there. I replaced my catback because the OEM one had holes in it.

 

I’d check manifold, they’re prone to cracking.

Rock has O2 sensors for best price I’ve seen.

Look into a flex pipe to relieve stress. Cheaper if you order online then most exhaust shops.

Like everything what’s budget? Cuz you can go mild to wild. Loud or quite. But it’s still a 22re. Or patch it and save. But seriously check into a flex pipe.