Re: Perf Exhausts

[DeWitt Harrison <de@aztek-eng.com>]

On Tue, 18 Nov 1997 13:49:34 -0500 (EST), Steve Babbar wrote:

>Has anyone tried using a single perf. muffler instead of the oem center
>and rear muffler setup? My current exhaust has no center muffler, only the
>rear muffler and something else not there (????). It sounds like a truck,
>but works very, very well. I'm looking into a Borla, Flowmaster, or
>Ultraflow muffler right now. Just need to know how they sound and if
>there's any noticeable power difference.

I guess there is a wide range of differing outcomes on the exhaust
mod experience.  In my case, I eliminated all the stock muffler and
resonator pieces and installed the largest Borla (a big "Hemi" model)
that would fit at the tail end.  2 1/2" stainless plumbing cat back.
The short stainless tail pipe points downward at 45 degrees.
Stock cat still intact. The sound has a satisfying throaty quality.
At first you can notice the difference in tone from inside the car
but you quickly become accustomed to it since it is never loud
or ragged sounding.  I've never had a comment about having a
loud exhaust.

Of course YMMV: different car, no cat, 3" pipe or different
tail pipe can change things. The quality of installation will also
have a big influence on secondary issues, especially clanging
and banging against the undercarriage.

IMHO the stock catalytic converter is the main source of exhaust
back pressure. Therefore, performance gain has been minimal to
date. But at least I do have the option now to have a free flow
exhaust if I take that last step.  The noise will undoubted increase
at that time.

DeWitt Harrison    de@aztek-eng.com
Boulder, CO
88 5kcstq