169 Muffler - how should I restore/protect?
 

I'm in the process of doing a complete restore on a 169 I recently purchased. I want to do this 100% (museum quality) and while I have no future plans for it at this time (showing it, using it) I want to get it back as close to the day it rolled out of IH as possible.

It came with the original, stock 169 muffler. It is in decent shape, at least from external appearances. I understand they (the mufflers) are extremely hard to find in any condition. So, I'm wondering how best to restore (removing rust and dirt) and then protect/preserve it. While I stated above that I want to a close to a museum quality restore as possible, for a part nearly irreplaceable, I am open to none period correct finishes, etc., so I'd like to know the best means to clean the thing up (ie. does the least damage) then the *best* way to keep it in good condition/prolong its life.

Thanks for any input!

-Calvin

The muffler seems to be an avaliable part? #IH-61274-C1

For clean up on one of mine that was in good , solid condition I lightly hit it in the blast cabinet. That removed any light rust without getting into the metal too far. Then I used some hi temp paint for bbq grills. Looked like new when it was done and one can of paint is enough to do several of them if you ever need to do a touch up.

Nope, been NLA for years. Just because it shows up in the parts lookup doesn't mean you can still get it.

Have it Ceramic coated.

The ceramic holds up to heat well but scratches easily. With a spray can of hi-temp paint , touch up is a breeze not to mention cheaper.

Put a couple rubber corks in it and re-plate it with zinc. It'll look like new and last a long time for just showing.