CATBACK EXHAUST SYSTEM FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What is a cat-back exhaust system?
   A cat-back exhaust system is an aftermarket replacement for all the components of your car's factory exhaust system beyond the catalytic converter. This includes piping, resonator, muffler, exhaust tip, and mounting hardware. Cat-back exhaust systems are application-specific because the entire system is designed to mount cleanly under your vehicle and work in harmony with your engine to produce maximum power and the best sound possible.
   
   
2. Many cat-back descriptions mention mandel-bent pipes. What are they and why are they important?
   Mandrel-bent pipes are much preferred over standard, "crush-bent" pipes. Mandrel-bent pipes are bent using a mandrel, which is a device that supports the interior of the pipe as it is being bent, resulting in a perfectly round pipe with smooth bends and a consistent diameter from end to end. Crush-bent pipes, on the other hand, tend to flatten out or wrinkle up at the bends, reducing the inner diameter of the piping substantially and robbing performance. All quality cat-back exhaust systems feature mandrel-bent pipes because they provide smoother, higher-volume exhaust flow and superior performance.
   
   
3. What diameter exhaust piping should I use? Are bigger pipes always better?
   Contrary to what you may have heard, bigger pipes are not always better! While big fat pipes look aggressive and allow for a high volume of exhaust flow, they can actually hurt your engine performance because they don't let the exhaust flow out of your engine at the optimum rate. Aftermarket cat-back exhaust systems are tuned and designed for optimum flow rate for each specific application. This provides efficient power production through a broad RPM range, increasing the enjoyment and streetability of your newly found muscle.
   
   
4. How much extra power can I expect from a cat-back exhaust?
   This depends on the application, of course. Forced induction applications produce much larger power gains than their naturally aspirated counterparts (for more info on why, check out our Boost Shop Components Guide). With this considered, on average you can expect approximately 6 to 25 more horsepower and an additional 5 to 20 foot-pounds of torque. You'll also get other benefits, such as a more aggressive sound and a better-looking rear end.
   
   
5. What's the difference between mild steel, stainless steel, and titanium exhausts?
   All three materials have similar performance characteristics. The main differences (besides price) are in weight, corrosion resistance, and appearance. Mild steel exhausts are inexpensive, but tend to corrode more quickly than stainless and titanium systems. Mild steel is best suited to vehicles in warm, dry climates, where they won't be exposed to rain, snow, or salt. Stainless exhausts are more corrosion resistant, and often have a brushed or polished appearance that appeals to show car enthusiasts. Titanium exhausts combine the corrosion resistance of stainless steel with even better looks and lighter weight. Titanium exhausts are the most expensive, best-looking cat-backs you'll find.
   
   
6. Should I install a dual exhaust system?
   If you like the look, go for it! Just be sure that your vehicle's rear bumper (or aftermarket body kit bumper) has dual exhaust cut-outs for a smooth look. Performance-wise, your gains will be similar to those of a single exhaust design.
   
   
7. My local auto shop can build me a custom exhaust. Is a cat-back exhaust better than a custom one?
   Most likely, yes. Cat-back exhausts are application-specific and work together as a single system, so they are tuned to work together as well as possible on your vehicle. Cat-back manufacturers have already done the research regarding sound, performance, flow rates, fitment, and so on. In fact, the savings on installation alone may justify the higher cost of a cat-back! Custom exhausts are mainly a last resort for vehicle applications that do not have a pre-fabricated cat-back system available. In this case, if you want some exhaust performance, you'll need to create it.
   
   
8. Are cat-back exhaust systems emissions-legal?
   Yes. By definition, a cat-back exhaust system is installed aft of any emissions-control hardware your vehicle comes with from the factory, so they have no effect on pollution levels. Be aware, though, that some cat-back exhausts designed primarily for racing applications can be loud enough to violate local laws. Be sure to check with local law enforcement to find out what's considered too loud in your city.
   
   
9. Are aftermarket headers emissions-legal?
   In most cases, yes. As long as the header has ports for all factory sensors and other emissions equipment, the header should be perfectly emissions-legal. Well-known manufacturers such as DC Sports and GReddy, unless specifically noted, carry C.A.R.B. approval, making them emissions-legal. Any other specific questions can be answered by looking up your local emissions laws or by contacing your local motor vehicle department.
   
   
10. Can I install a cat-back exhaust system myself?
    Yes, but be careful! Cat-back exhaust systems are relatively easy to install because they bolt up to existing mounting points, such as the flange on your catalytic converter and several mounting locations along the undercarriage. In order to install one, though, you'll need relatively unrestricted access to the underside of your vehicle. Before crawling underneath your vehicle, you'll need to be absolutely sure that all four jacking points are securely positioned atop sturdy jackstands. DO NOT use a jack to hold up your vehicle! You will likely need to apply lots of torque to remove your stock exhaust and the movement may topple the jack while you are under the car. We want you alive to buy more parts from us! Alternatively, you can have an exhaust shop or repair shop install it. It won't cost much.
    
    
11. Will I get more tail if I install a cat-back exhaust?
    Yes.