Some time ago, I posted a concern about a very annoying gravely sound that seemed to be transmitted through the body from some unknown source. I'm attempting to get this 89 245 ready for daily duty after sitting for some 7 years. It runs great. Been driving it now for a month. However, as I continue on with my proceedures to make it reliable and road ready, I seemed to have DEVELOPED a noise that was NOT intended. The transmission rubber mount to frame was GONE! Essentially just two plates with a hit of rubber on them rubbing together - yikes! Chaning that and the two motor mounts out was great and improved a number of things. But, a nasty growl, gravely sound developed. Here's what I found today that answers this question and may be specific to my car, but worthy of putting in searchable archives for anyone else who may have the same exerience.

In it's 23 years on the planet with only 113K miles, the muffler had been worked on. The work performed on the muffler was fine for collapsed motor and transmission mounts, but when changed, the entire muffler system responded to the new position of the motor and transmission and just aft of the cat converter, the pipe was slammed right up against the center mount crossover bar. Glad to know the source and now I look for a muffler shop to correct the direct contact. In Florida, we do not require emissions inspections of any type. Any problem with completely removing the cat convertor? My concern is the oxyen sensor that is immediately in front of the convertor. Where should it be placed? Just somewhere in the exhaust down pipe after header?

Thanks to all who tried to help. The solution is welcomed!