Custom exhaust q's

[lone_wolf025]

Ok did a search, couldn't find the answers I was looking for.

Currently the only mod to my exhaust is a 2.5" electronic cutout. Fun little toy but now I want a bigger exhaust to change the sound. I don't want a catback but rather a new full system from downpipe back. I was thinking of putting in 2.5" piping all the way down with a hi-flow cat, of which I hear its best to get an o2 sim to go with it, into a yet to be determined brand of 2.5" catback. I'd like to keep the cutout to either bypass the hi-flow or just the muffler because I don't want the new exhaust to be very loud. I understand that due to the nature of the mods I'm thinking of the exhaust will be louder. I just want to mute it a little w/out countering any performance gains from it. The only remaining stock component will be the headers because I'm kinda hoping to get Milzy's when they come out.

Here are my questions:

A) Can this be done?

B) How much ballpark would I be looking at?

C) What's the quietest aftermarket combo?

I'm more concerned about noise level than I am about performance. I figure keep the big exhaust semi quiet to keep the annoying suburbia cops off my ass, but have the cutout to go full volume no restriction.

Now tell me if I'm onto something or if I'm way out in left field center.

[Rizzo22]

A) Yes it can be done by any decent exhaust shop

B)I was told 150 for parts and labor for 2.5 piping for downpipe back, added in price of muffler and tips i would say 350-400 depending on the brand and style you get for your muffler/tips.

C)From what ive heard out of the big four(SLP, Borla, Flowmaster and Magnaflow) the Magnaflow is the quitest overall, but imo the best sound.

[lone_wolf025]

Very cool. That's what I was hoping to hear. Thanks for the input.

[lone_wolf025]

Reviving my own thread. Super. Need a little help for a sleeper setup.

I'm planning on getting some S&S headers but before that I need to get a cat-back exhaust of 2.5". I'm not interested in performance or flow because I have my cutout to bypass it when I want. My goal is to have the exhaust as close to stock noise level as I can with the cutout closed. I figure I'll get a muffler and bring it with me when I go to the shop and get the whole thing done in one fell swoop.

So does anyone know of a good muffler that can fit 2.5" piping with our car and still be quiet?

[AaronGTR]

The key points in noise reduction are usually small piping, more bends, and mufflers with more internal bends and chambers. All of which reflect and absorb the sound while they also restrict exhaust flow. Pretty much every aftermarket muffler is made to negate those effects, and using larger piping will inevitably make it louder. Try looking for mufflers with divided exhaust routing or chambers (non-straight thru design) and you'll probably need more than one muffler. Something like this maybe. http://www.a-1performance.com/super_turbo/. Possibly a combination of a 17734 and 17739 mufflers might keep the sound down a bit, but it still won't sound stock.

[gectek]

just get a stock muffler, cut the pipe and tips off and use that and weld new ones on...could get the donor muffler from the JY...its restrictive and baffles the sound pretty good, and should negate any pipe dia change, or just use the tips, since getting different tips will change the sound as well

[lone_wolf025]

Well I understand that getting the new system will dramatically increase the sound output and I don't expect to get it 100% back to stock sounds. Basically I'm looking to mask the noise without getting overly complex. Gotta go for that stealth setup ya know? I do realize this is also a rather unique request for silence instead of noise :P Figure if I can dampen the sound so that its not extremely obvious I'm running performance exhaust I'll be happy.

I like the tips idea provided I can find a good set that'll help. Think maybe the exhaust shop will have some suggestions?

The more suggestions the better.

[gectek]

ultimate stealth would be the stock GT muffler, still has a good tone and would allow a little of the sound change

[laxjax13]

We can always meet up so u can hear my exhaust . see if u like it and u can work from there.

IVe got slp piping with a magnaflow high flow cat.

to bad last u saw my car it was dead so u couldnt hear it :p

[lone_wolf025]

Hmmm...well then all I'd really need is 2.5" up to the cutout and keep with the stock piping after that... Definitely be cheaper that way too...

We can always meet up so u can hear my exhaust . see if u like it and u can work from there.

IVe got slp piping with a magnaflow high flow cat.

to bad last u saw my car it was dead so u couldnt hear it :p

Heh I remember that. Course come to think of it you said yours was louder than my cutout :p

[laxjax13]

hmm maybe just a little. here's a video i found of my car idleing. (cold start in summer)
i cant remember if i had the cat installed when i recorded this video because i didnt even have my sc/t spoiler on at the time so its a pretty old vid .

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XF4l__ZIjo

[lone_wolf025]

Sounds a little more aggressive and less raspy than mine. Course then again I'm still running the stock cat w/resonator so I only expect so much.

I figure though I'll get the headers w/flex pipe, buy a hi-flow cat, and some 2.5" tubing. Provided that the flex pipe has a flange that I can bolt the high flow to, I just need someone to weld the pipe up to my cutout. Everything past the cutout I can keep on and see how stealthy it sounds. Now I just need to wait for spring so I have time to do all this stuff...

[gectek]

no, i would be in your best interest to get the downpipe and use it like that, maybe replace the cat if you want because the flex is just that, the pipe ends at the end and there is no flange, it is just about 1/8 in to weld to, and they could get the alignment wrong if they dont weld it on the car. the ss downpipe is very good IMO, and you can change it if you want. im getting my dump welded before the cat in the downpipe to bypass all the extra

[bballr4567]

I have a 2.5 catback with a magnaflow camaro muffler and it sounds great. At about 1700-2200 RPMs it has a low low growl but if you go WOT the engine sounds drown out the exhaust from what I can tell.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ey8cqkhAOUM

That was right when I got it. Its mellowed out and sounds a little crisper now. It also doesnt pop near as much.

[timberwoof]

How much of a difference can you tell, when you have the cutout closed to when you open it? is it a big difference?

[lone_wolf025]

no, i would be in your best interest to get the downpipe and use it like that, maybe replace the cat if you want because the flex is just that, the pipe ends at the end and there is no flange, it is just about 1/8 in to weld to, and they could get the alignment wrong if they dont weld it on the car. the ss downpipe is very good IMO, and you can change it if you want. im getting my dump welded before the cat in the downpipe to bypass all the extra

So get the headers w/out flex and purchase a downpipe (ss you recommend) and definately a high flow (cuz I see nitrous in my future). Now does the downpipe already come with a cat or is it just the section of piping from the headers back?

How much of a difference can you tell, when you have the cutout closed to when you open it? is it a big difference?

For my current setup (with a CAI being the only addition to the cutout) it sounds stock when closed. With it open its comparable to the usual catbacks. I got some crappy video of mine soon after it was installed (open only) and can post it up if you want.

[SpyhunteR]

get an aftermarket muffler that can replace the resonator, and get another muffler to replace the OEM muffler. You'll still have your diameter you're looking for. The combination of the two should definitely keep things toned down, moreso as well as being an upgrade.

[timberwoof]

For my current setup (with a CAI being the only addition to the cutout) it sounds stock when closed. With it open its comparable to the usual catbacks. I got some crappy video of mine soon after it was installed (open only) and can post it up if you want.

Nah that's cool, i've seen it. I did a search after I posted and saw where you posted the video. I was just asking about performance distance. If it was noticable, to you, compared from closed to open.

[lone_wolf025]

Noticeable? Butt dyno wise its hard to tell. I've seen the results on the quarter though. Figure its good for 2 tenths or so with just the CAI. Think of it as the poor man's exhaust. You'll get gains comparable to a catback. Plus its just fun to "sneak" around all quiet like then open it for full power.

[gectek]

the cat pipe will have the high flow cat and the downpipe/flex on it. if you are looking at nitrous then i would take that cat out and use a metal high flow, aaron recommended some, i forget where they are, but also Random Tech has some that are really small and will work, they are metal. then just go with that. the downpipe is stock length so it will work, and also it bolts up to the factory flange, or any other cat back flange so it is bolt and go

[AaronGTR]

Yeah, I got a vibrant metal core cat from verocious motorsports. My cut-out is right in front of the cat, so when it's open it bypasses everything and it's basically like running open headers. Loud as all hell! Next time I dyno it I'm going to try it with the cutout closed and open so I can get some actual numbers on it.

[lone_wolf025]

Yeah, I got a vibrant metal core cat from verocious motorsports. My cut-out is right in front of the cat, so when it's open it bypasses everything and it's basically like running open headers. Loud as all hell! Next time I dyno it I'm going to try it with the cutout closed and open so I can get some actual numbers on it.

Don't forget to try a run opening the cutout midway through the run and see what happens. Personally though I'm gonna keep my cutout after the cat.

Verocious motorsports eh...got a website?

[gectek]

just try adding a www in front of it, or if you search its on here somewhere

[gectek]

Yeah, I got a vibrant metal core cat from verocious motorsports. My cut-out is right in front of the cat, so when it's open it bypasses everything and it's basically like running open headers. Loud as all hell! Next time I dyno it I'm going to try it with the cutout closed and open so I can get some actual numbers on it.

wait a minute, arent u the one that calls out all the polluters???

shame shame

[lone_wolf025]

just try adding a www in front of it, or if you search its on here somewhere

There you go ruining my fun...I wanted to be lazy and now I don't have an excuse for it...damn...:p

-Edit-
Ok so I've got part of the list done
S&S Headers - $514.60
V.M. metal core hi-flow - $142.80

Now I gotta go digging through that downpipe thread...work work work :D

[gectek]

i knew i had a pic of the downpipe somewhere, look here
http://www.grandamgt.com/forum/showthread.php?t=66440&highlight=cat

[AaronGTR]

wait a minute, arent u the one that calls out all the polluters???

shame shame



Yeah, but this is not my daily driver, and I don't run around with the cutout open all the time. :rolleyes: The car is stored 5 months of the year and only driven 1-2 times a week the rest of the time, and cutout will only be used at the dragstrip.



Here's the link for verocious. http://stores.channeladvisor.com/verociousmotorsports/. Good source for all kinds of universal exhaust and intake parts.

[lone_wolf025]

i knew i had a pic of the downpipe somewhere, look here
http://www.grandamgt.com/forum/showthread.php?t=66440&highlight=cat

Saw that. Good pic for reference. Now I assume that's the extra from their site (http://www.headermania.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=H&Product_Code=3400CH&Category_Code=V6HeadersGA) Also from the looks of things it has a cat on it so perhaps I'll hold off on the metal core cat until I get the nitrous later.


Here's the link for verocious. http://stores.channeladvisor.com/verociousmotorsports/. Good source for all kinds of universal exhaust and intake parts.

Got that too.

[AaronGTR]

Saw that. Good pic for reference. Now where do I get it? Also from the looks of things it has a cat on it so perhaps I'll hold off on the metal core cat until I get the nitrous later.


The cat is optional on it, but it's a high flow and only another $50 which is cheap so yeah I'd just get theirs instead of getting another metal core. I'd get the stainless version for another $40 too. The high flow ceramic core cat will work just fine with nitrous too. You don't have to have a metal core.

[lone_wolf025]

The cat is optional on it, but it's a high flow and only another $50 which is cheap so yeah I'd just get theirs instead of getting another metal core. I'd get the stainless version for another $40 too. The high flow ceramic core cat will work just fine with nitrous too. You don't have to have a metal core.

Ah fun. More stuff to ponder.

[gectek]

no, but with nitrous in mind, its only a matter of time until you need the HP push all the time instead of a push button, so then its SC,TC, or anything of those combinations, and yah the cat really isnt an option for the downpipe, i know i tried that cuz i wanted to make a race pipe with just a cutout on it, but they wouldnt do it, its either the cat and pipe or just the flange and flex...and i know about the whole secret stash car and all, i just had to call u out on that one...lol

the ss cat isnt bad, it isnt the best in the world, but at least it is straight and works to give the effective length of the stock exhaust

[lone_wolf025]

but with nitrous in mind, its only a matter of time until you need the HP push all the time instead of a push button, so then its SC,TC, or anything of those combinations,

I hate to say this but unless I come into some big money, i.e. I won the lotto (yea right) or get an extremely well paying job the exhaust and nitrous are my limit. Which is also why I have two "shopping lists" for my car, a realistic one and an all out one. I gotta pay off the car completely then I gotta save up for my personal dream car...the *puts on flame suit* Rx-8. If I have money I'm keeping this car (my first car that's in MY name) cuz no one really wants to part with their first car, and I'm gonna see what I can do with it.

[gectek]

yah, thats what i said...and low and behold, im doing more on my car, and its been a long trip and ill be done when i die. they will bury this thing with me

[lone_wolf025]

lol We'll see about that. Maybe if I get into customs I'll be able to afford two cars...or maybe I won't. I will get that rotary someday...that much is certain.

[AaronGTR]

The rx-8 handles great, but it's nothing compared to it's predecessor the rx-7. The engine is weak and though it runs cooler and uses less fuel due to it's new port design, it's also notorious for having problems. The rx-8 looks great and has some great suspension parts available, but unless you have the money to swap in a three rotor engine or an LS1 I wouldn't even bother getting one. There's a reason you don't see many of them in the popular import mags. They are hard to get power out of without blowing them up. [shall I get the fire extinguisher? lol]

[gectek]

and dont forget the fact that you constantly have to add oil because it has to burn the oil, expect your first replacement at about 60k, but if it is his dream car, then there isnt any reason to knock it, it is his opinion. mine is a 70 GTO, but thats just to begin with. i would really like to have an 06 GTO and run it wild

[lone_wolf025]

The rx-8 handles great, but it's nothing compared to it's predecessor the rx-7. The engine is weak and though it runs cooler and uses less fuel due to it's new port design, it's also notorious for having problems. The rx-8 looks great and has some great suspension parts available, but unless you have the money to swap in a three rotor engine or an LS1 I wouldn't even bother getting one. There's a reason you don't see many of them in the popular import mags. They are hard to get power out of without blowing them up. [shall I get the fire extinguisher? lol]

lol

Yea yea I've heard it before :p. The Rx-8 has its lovers just like the 7 and there are many differing opinions in many ongoing debates about which is better or worse. I don't know much about the 7 but I'm gonna throw in with the 8 crowd if nothing else for the styling and handling of the car. I've been in love with the thing ever since I saw a commercial for it when it was a new model so come hell or high water I still plan on getting one. And nothing says rotary like that characteristic hum and flames shooting out the tail pipes :)

I just hope I can keep the Grand Ma...it'd "brake" my heart to part with it...especially since its an SC/T package model...I'd love to go all out and challenge the likes of Spy and Schweppe but I can't right now... Oh well I'll just have to wait and see what the future will bring.

[lone_wolf025]

I love this thread of mine. Second time I've bumped it :D

Alrighty, so, once again my exhaust cutout motor has burned itself out. BIG surprise there huh? Its been replaced once already under warranty by the seller, but was a huge PITA to get him to respond. (see this thread) (http://www.grandamgt.com/forum/showthread.php?t=69596) Since its still under warranty I'm going to try again, but it looks like I'll be saving my money for a more permanent solution.

Now, I've run through this thread again, and I'm thinking of a custom cat-back setup. Would a Y pipe setup w/two mufflers be doable on our car ya think? Figure, with more piping I'd still have good flow but still be somewhat quiet, maybe with the setup that AaronGTR suggested? And does anyone know if James Dean Mufflers@ 6501 Joliet Rd. Countryside, IL is still around?

[silvergtjrad]

I love this thread of mine. Second time I've bumped it :D

Alrighty, so, once again my exhaust cutout motor has burned itself out. BIG surprise there huh? Its been replaced once already under warranty by the seller, but was a huge PITA to get him to respond. (see this thread) (http://www.grandamgt.com/forum/showthread.php?t=69596) Since its still under warranty I'm going to try again, but it looks like I'll be saving my money for a more permanent solution.

Now, I've run through this thread again, and I'm thinking of a custom cat-back setup. Would a Y pipe setup w/two mufflers be doable on our car ya think? Figure, with more piping I'd still have good flow but still be somewhat quiet, maybe with the setup that AaronGTR suggested? And does anyone know if James Dean Mufflers@ 6501 Joliet Rd. Countryside, IL is still around?

Yup, they are still there. Fair Muffler on 55th and Lagrange does custom catbacks as well. Ive heard good things about both of those shops.

[lone_wolf025]

Got a zipcode with the intersection?

[silvergtjrad]

1 E Plainfield Road La Grange, IL 60525-2956

Its on plainfield and La grange apparently, not 55th.

[lone_wolf025]

That'd explain why I couldn't find it on the map. Thanks, I'll check out both places and see what they say.

[Gizm0815]

james dean is still there jon i went about a year ago and they wanted 900 bucks to do 2.5in mandral bent from the dp back with a magnaflow muffler and tips. personally i think the shop is pricey but i hear the work is great.

[lone_wolf025]

james dean is still there jon i went about a year ago and they wanted 900 bucks to do 2.5in mandral bent from the dp back with a magnaflow muffler and tips. personally i think the shop is pricey but i hear the work is great.

I'll probably just have them do from the cat-back for now, and probably get headers and a dp at a later date. But that's up in the air atm. But $900 huh...I'm curious what the other place will quote now.

[DrFabulous]

Anyone who has upgraded their muffler/exhaust and still has their stock GT muffler, I want to buy it. Email aliarakos@hotmail.com
Reply ASAP
Thanx
Tony
1HOT SE

STOP SPAMMING EVERY THREAD TRYING TO BUY YOUR DAMN MUFFLER.

Post a WTB ad and keep an eye on the FS section