If you were to just put a muffler or cat back exhaust on a 94-98.5 12V which kind would you recommend? My buddy just said that PA just passed a new law starting next year, that all vehicles must have cats on it to pass inspection. So now he wants to keep his Cat. Also how easy did it install, and how does it sound, (i.e. the dreaded drone) & price......

 

I'd gut the cat and put the shell on a full turbo-back system. I am satisfied with my system from bigexhaust.com (and I passed inspection with no muffler) . PA doesn't have emissions testing for diesels, so as long as it passes whatever visual inspection the mechanic knows to do there should be no problem. Most inspection mechanics are clueless about diesels anyway.
My system fit well except for being a little long, no big deal - better than too short! Sound is great, no drone that I've noticed. Price was good, but shop around. 1st gen systems are harder to find than what you are looking for. DTR member ATC250R has a Summit system on his, they are very low priced, you might want to PM him for his opinion.

 

Check this thread, he'll set you up with what you want and need at a great price:

https://www.dieseltruckresource.com/...threadid=23996