Upgrading Exhaust System!

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This often proves to be one of the first modification on most sport compacts. Due to the fact that cars affected by the 'snow belt' usually require an exhaust system replacement, the opportunity is often taken to upgrade the exhaust. Durability and sound are often reason why many enthusiasts choose stainless steel performance exhaust systems.

The Exhaust system upgrades range from a new muffler replacement to complete systems from the exhaust ports on the cylinder head, down to the rear bumper. Incorrectly set up system can lack backpressure (a vital element on any non-turbo car, and in extremes it could hurt rather than improve the engine's performance.

Due to the uncertainty of the future powertrain upgrades (engine swap or forced induction) I have chosen to upgrade my catalytic converter and exhaust piping from rear of the converter.

Parts used:
- Ractive 'Twin Round DTM' S/S seamless muffler (P/N MT-228) with 2.25" inlet and dual 3" round tips
- Carsound hi-flow universal catalytic converter (P/N 94005) 2.25" inlet and outlet
- 2.25" T-304 S/S piping and other components

NOTE: Upgrading exhaust components requires professional installation. If components are purchased as ready to fit units, hoist will be required to use. When making a custom exhaust system, cutting, bending, welding and installation will be required. Insist on high grade components and ensure that all required maintenance is completed prior to the upgrade.

I would strongly recommend a proper exhaust system upgrade. Beside obvious benefits of good quality and sporty sound, a high performance exhaust system can compliment air intake system in allowing the engine to breath better. Ensure that a correct back pressure is met with a use of additional resonator. My original cat-back system has consisted solely of Ractive MT-228 muffler and Carsound's hi-flow converter. Increasing the flow of the system and eliminating the resonator used on the extension pipe of the factory exhaust, low backpressure has introduced some backfiring and excessive loudness. This was also accompanied by lack of low end torque. By installing the hi-flow resonator, the efficiency of the new exhaust system was complimented by a backpressure that has corrected the backfiring and lack of low end torque.

As a general rule of thumb, non-turbo cars should have exhaust diameter upgrade of no more than 1/4" to 1/2"!!! Only in turbocharged cars 'bigger is better' applies as a successful formula! Stay tuned, more exhaust modifications to come at a later date!!!

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