Original muffler, can this be saved Options

[Ron914]

This is the original muffler from my car . I was wondering if it can be saved/fixed.
Not sure if this will be required to pass smog on my 1976 as it is part of the original equipment needed to pass as a 49 state car in California . I currently have the repaired Bursch I got from Franz @drem914 installed on my car but not sure if this will be a problem when I go for my smog test ?
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[Jack Standz]

I have a similar question about an original muffler with a small hole in it, about 1/4 in diameter. Believing the internal corrosion is a greater area than that hole, and wanting to both keep the muff and do a good job, I wonder if a good welder can not just weld on a surface patch, but actually cut in a butt welded patch and grind it down flush to look and function like no damage ever occurred. Anyone with experience with this technique, any drawbacks?

Will a muffler shop do this or does it require a more skilled welder?

Have repaired/welded a stock 2 liter muffler with a rust hole (like the one in the photo). Yes, it wasn't so easy. But, a good welder with the right settings and patience should be able to fix it. But, if the rust is extensive, the bandaid may have limited life.

The problem is the metal is thin and you can easily have blowouts. Used a mig welder, but next time might try TIG.

I would have never guessed this was a used old muffler , looks like new . I currently have a Bursch on it now with a new muffler welded on , I only wanted to see if the original could be or worth fixing . Your muffler look great . Appreciate the response here .

That is just a sample/stock photo because I don't have a very good photo of the one I repaired. But, repairing the old muffler saved $$ that can go into other parts of the restoration.

Here is a poor photo of the one with the weld repair. It's not currently in a car and time will tell how long the repaired pinholes will last.