While going over engine was looking for a reason for a significant loss of top end power. Finally found one!  EXHAUST.      

The exhaust had 2 brackets lodged one on top of one another towards the center of the pipe.  It at least appears the silencer was originally routed through these
and maybe they were welded perpendicular to airflow further down the pipe?  The brackets were blocking airflow and reduced power significantly.
As a result, it was quiet too, which was ok. 
 
Can someone describe the way/where the two brackets should fit?   Was there originally sound deadening material?  I need to look over the weld marks a bit closer for location evidence.     

Ideas?

don't think this is how it came from factory


2 brackets on top floating inside, one jammed in center area; silencer looks bent or forced on inlet side w/holes and flattened in center. may have to look
that over closer.


now, if I can keep from burning holes everywhere w/welder. 








 

You can see the spot welds for both baffle plates , on the back of the section you've removed .