I tried the same clamp fix with the same results. The problem as I see it is that you cannot replace a straight section with that coupling.
I tried some "muffler bandage" wrap prior to clamping it up in an attempt to seal it but that did not work. I have a feeling that furnace cement will not hold up to the vibration at a joint. Same thing with the Permatex stuff.

I think the best way is welding but am reluctant for the same reasons you are.

You could go new cat + muffler for only around $600 in parts!

Maybe try a different muffler shop - like a custom shop that will build an exhaust for you. Although then you may be looking at more than you want to spend. I'm not so impressed with the quality of goods from Midas / Mienike etc.

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"Differences of opinions should be tolerated, but not if they're too different' - Sharon Craig

Lousy design, in my opinion.

Might work fine with Volvo original parts, but with anything out of the ordinary, that clamp design is the weak link.

I ended-up having to trim the bell and flare on the ends of the pipe and welded proper two-bolt flanges to the ends of both pipes.

Problem solved. Unfortunately, it took a lot of time and consideration to get it right.

If Meineke can do the sleeve thing, but split it in half and put proper flanges in-place, that would essentially be doing what I did.

Good luck.

Furnace cement will work on a small spot. Did on my 240's downpipe...:)

Check some of the recent posts. Don't remember the name of the thread, but in one there is a discussion on how to successfully mount the muffler to the cat.