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Further to Gary's comments. I just replaced the exhaust system on my B234F using the OEM kits -straightforward job, no surprises. Note that the replacement kit for the B234F uses slightly bigger diameter pipes than the original so you are pretty much stuck replacing the whole system back of the cat (hence the Volvo kit). As I recall from the box label, the B234F, B230FT and B280F all share the same exhaust replacement kit so it should be readily available at most dealers. I don't believe the ipd catalogue shows any B234F exhausts listed, but you might well find their B230FT systems will fit.
From years of experience with generic muffler shops and from many comments made here on the 'Board, there is simply no question that Volvo OEM mufflers are good quality and, in the long run, probably well worth any extra initial expense. The mufflers (only) are lifetime guaranteed to the purchaser at any dealer, even if you install it yourself. The only other sensible option would be a performance muffler system at considerably more expense.
Here's a couple of bonus tips:
The muffler hanger straps seem to be the weak spot in the 740 muffler system -relatively thin stock prone to rusting through. Anything you can do to add protection here will help. Just don't use anything that will fry -undercoat is absolutely not the right stuff. I had some high-heat (BBQ) paint handy and used it -there's probably even better ideas.
The original tail piece is a half-sporty looking, double walled, black painted pipe that seems to last forever. The replacement tail piece is rather plain (ie. wimpy) by comparison. I was able to retrofit the original one on the new muffler by slitting the muffler end so it could be made to fit over the old pipe (as opposed to being inside for the new). Cut your expansion slits so they won't create a gap if lined up with the slits on the old tail pipe. A hacksaw blade in a portable jigsaw makes quick work of this. You may need to compress the inner pipe and expand the outer pipe to get a good fit -hand tools will do the job.
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