Questions regarding exhaust.

Sorry, but I tried for the last couple of hours to post this in the Mods, Maint, Tips area , but it wouldn't let me (I kept getting timed out when I clicked on post new thread).?

I'd like to upgrade my exhaust system. I'm looking for better hp, fuel economy (or atleast not making it suffer), A WOW sound without the drone,
also would like to be able to hear the radio, and conversations at cruising speed.
I've read up on different systems, and found out that there's alot of "ours is the best" systems out there.
I've concluded that picking the brains of people who've already done these mods, and getting their feedback is the best way to go. I know everyone here may think their system is the Best, and that's ok, just provide me with the WHY'S please.
I'm a shade tree mechanic, so please don't hesitate to be explicit. YOU WONT BORE ME!!!:thumbsup:
Cat back, X-pipe vs H-pipe, headers vs w/out headers??? Did I miss anything?
I know this is going to be a mouthful of explaining, but it'll be much appreciated.
ALSO:
Anyone have the K&N CAI? is it as good as they claim?

THANKS!!!:thumbsup:

Ray

:bigear:

I have a Magnaflow system on my 96. The exhaust note is agressive and had a slight drone at 1800 rpm but wasn't annoying, at wide open throttle it screamed. I then added Hooker LT 1 3/4 headers, the cats fell off, and installed a 3" x-pipe, and 3" all the way back and it got a little louder but to my surprise was still not obnoxious. Then when I did the head/cam swap it got really loud (It's hard to order fast food through a drive through because I cant hear the speaker). But I'm not complaining because I get at least 5 people a week walk up to me and make a comment about how good my car sounds (it doesn't hurt that it has a nasty lope to it from the cam!!!!) Hope this helps, but check out the Magnaflow systems.

Greg

A lot of what follows in based on my own research into this, but not experience, so take this fwiw.

The general consensus is that all systems other than the Z06 Ti and the Corsas will drone. How bad, and whether that's objectionable, is very much a matter of the individual combination and the owner's tastes/sensitivity. Drone is considered a much more serious problem on automatic cars because you can't "shift around it".

I went from stock to the Z06 Ti, partly because they get great reviews, and partly because they are amazingly cheap - $450 or so used mint. Considering that the discount new price from GM is almost $2k, that's a deal. They are a little louder than stock, and have a better tone, but you aren't going to notice the difference inside the car except when getting on it pretty hard - then there is a noticeable improvement.

I've come to the conclusion that I want louder. If those Harley guys can get away with it, so can I. :reddevil: I rarely listen to music in the car, as I much prefer to listen to the engine. I have a set of American Racing headers on order, with cats and also an off-road pipe. I'll probably try it with cats first and then the off-road pipe (assuming I can find someone who will install it). A fair number of folks have told me that they thought the Tis with headers was the best overall sound. We'll see.

I asked this question on Corvette Forum: "Just how much louder are headers?" Responses varied a lot (go figure), with some saying it made a big difference, and some saying not much at all.

There are some straight-through and near-straight-through catback systems. If you just want a considerable increase in volume but aren't going for a hotrod engine build, these are perhaps a better way to go than headers. Candidates include B&B Bullets, Corsa Stingers, the Stainless Works chambered sets, and the Borla XR-1 and straight pipe systems. However, if you do plan to go to headers later, reports are that these systems can be very loud with headers.

It's quite common for guys to go through several sets of catbacks looking for the right tone. Yes, that can get expensive. Thankfully, they are easy to sell used, and it's often the case that a guy with a quiet (not stock) set that wants to go louder can arrange a swap with a guy with a loud set who is tired of listening to it. It's also common that when you make a major change to your combination, like adding headers, a stroker, or a big cam, that it can change the sound enough that a catback change is in order.

There are various sites that have sound and video clips, but they are only so-so accurate. Two to try are ls1sounds.com and the video section at ls1tech.com. The manufacturers also often have sound clips.

Another thing to do is to attend Corvette shows and runs, where you can hear different sets in action. This can be a little time-consuming, but may be the best way to see what suits you without buyin' & tryin'.

Corsa will be at the upcoming UVP on the 18th. They often have pretty sweet deals at shows and may offer onsite installation (or may not - I haven't heard). Corsas do have the reputation of OEM quality and no drone - they are the only aftermarket exhaust that is sold and used by GM. Point is, they can be a good place to start as they are easy to sell later. They come in two sound flavors, Touring (about the same as stock), and Indy or Pace Car (louder). If you want a major step-up in volume, neither is likely to be enough.

Get out there and dig for videos. There aren't a ton of really good ones, but you can find some that are great and give a good feel for what an exhaust is like.

Good luck & have fun!

:thumbsup:

WANT TO DO THE RIGHT THING!

I HAVE BILLY BOATS "BB"'S ON MY RIDE....THEY ARE NASTY....

BUT IF YOU ARE COMING TO THE "UCP".......ASK THE GUYS TO LITE THEM UP FOR YOU AND HEAR FOR YOURSELF.....CORSA WILL BE AT SHOW ALSO....IT'S ALL A MATTER OF TASTE!!!..........:thumbsup:

Ray, you are more than welcome to go for a ride and hear my exhaust at the UCP on the 18th. I have LG LT headers with hi-flow cats and a Corsa Touring exhaust.

At cruising speeds, the Corsa's are supposed to be about 2db quieter than the stock Z06 Ti's. Even after I added the headers, it's still fairly quiet at cruising speed. When I get on it, you will definitely hear it. I get compliments on them all the time. They obviously sound different when you rev it compared to actually driving it.

Here is a link to my Putfile site that has 6 runs that I did at the Z06 Fest in July. It will give you an idea of what it sounds like. Of course there is nothing like the sound of being behind it, or in it. And videos don't really do it justice.
http://www.putfile.com/madn3ss/media

Sometimes I wish it was louder. Not SLP loudmouth loud, but maybe B&B Triflo's, GHL or the Borla Stingers. One of the reasons I went with Corsa was that I loved the Tiger Shark tips. I would love to have the Tiger Shark rear and front fascia. Have you seen it before?

So if you want to go for a ride at the show, let me know. We can always meet up a little earlier. Assuming we are going to meet at the McDonalds near the show. We'll have to start a thread to see how many people we can get. It would be cool to park together like other clubs do.

Scott

THESE ARE BB'S

THESE ARE BB'S...HUGH TIPS!!!!


http://www.bbexhaust.com/

I want an exhaust system NOW!!!

:wavey: I'm really anxious to see / hear the different exhaust systems while there. I'll be sure to try and find you, so that I can listen to yours.
Being that this is MY first show experience, I Just didn't want to be the "Pest", bothering others while they're trying to have THEIR fun at the UCP. Even though it is a place to Show Your Stuff.

:toetap05: Today I had a Cobra in the lane next to me (several cars back), but didn't know it until he got on it, and I mean to tell ya, It sounded awesome!!! I think I inked!:lmao:


Ray

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS!!

ynkedad said:

:wavey: I'm really anxious to see / hear the different exhaust systems while there. I'll be sure to try and find you, so that I can listen to yours.
Being that this is MY first show experience, I Just didn't want to be the "Pest", bothering others while they're trying to have THEIR fun at the UCP. Even though it is a place to Show Your Stuff.

:toetap05: Today I had a Cobra in the lane next to me (several cars back), but didn't know it until he got on it, and I mean to tell ya, It sounded awesome!!! I think I inked!:lmao:


Ray

Click to expand...

WE FORGOT TO TELL YOU SOMETHING OR AT LEAST I DID ABOUT EXHAUST SYSTEMS.

:ack2: NOT ALL WIVES LIKE LOUD AND "NASTY" EXHAUST SYSTEMS.:ack2:

THE MANAGEMENT ("WIFE") REFUSES TO GO ANYWHERE MORE THAN 20 MILES WITH ME IN THE CAR.

SO IF YOU ARE MARRIED, YOU HAD BETTER GET MANAGEMENT APPROVAL PRIOR TO ANY MODIFICATIONS.:NoNo:

"YOU WERE WARNED"

MY BB'S WILL KEEP UP WITH ANY "COBRA" EXHAUST AS FAR A LOUD GOES!!:thumbsup:

LOOK ME UP AT SHOW..WOULD BE PLEASED TO ASSIST YOU IN YOUR NEW HEARING AIDS!!!:lmao:

MADN3SS said:

Ray, you are more than welcome to go for a ride and hear my exhaust at the UCP on the 18th. I have LG LT headers with hi-flow cats and a Corsa Touring exhaust.

At cruising speeds, the Corsa's are supposed to be about 2db quieter than the stock Z06 Ti's. Even after I added the headers, it's still fairly quiet at cruising speed. When I get on it, you will definitely hear it. I get compliments on them all the time. They obviously sound different when you rev it compared to actually driving it.

Here is a link to my Putfile site that has 6 runs that I did at the Z06 Fest in July. It will give you an idea of what it sounds like. Of course there is nothing like the sound of being behind it, or in it. And videos don't really do it justice.
http://www.putfile.com/madn3ss/media

Sometimes I wish it was louder. Not SLP loudmouth loud, but maybe B&B Triflo's, GHL or the Borla Stingers. One of the reasons I went with Corsa was that I loved the Tiger Shark tips. I would love to have the Tiger Shark rear and front fascia. Have you seen it before?

So if you want to go for a ride at the show, let me know. We can always meet up a little earlier. Assuming we are going to meet at the McDonalds near the show. We'll have to start a thread to see how many people we can get. It would be cool to park together like other clubs do.

Scott

Click to expand...

:thumbsup: That would be Sweet! thanks for the offer!
We're satying at the "host hotel" Friday - Sunday. Not too sure where that is in reference to the Mcdonalds you speak of.
If it's close by, (don't want to get lost) we'll definately hook up there with anyone and everyone that wants to!

OH, and thanks you guys for the great vids!
Those BB'S sounded MEAN!

JIM KILL said:

WE FORGOT TO TELL YOU SOMETHING OR AT LEAST I DID ABOUT EXHAUST SYSTEMS.

:ack2: NOT ALL WIVES LIKE LOUD AND "NASTY" EXHAUST SYSTEMS.:ack2:

THE MANAGEMENT ("WIFE") REFUSES TO GO ANYWHERE MORE THAN 20 MILES WITH ME IN THE CAR.

SO IF YOU ARE MARRIED, YOU HAD BETTER GET MANAGEMENT APPROVAL PRIOR TO ANY MODIFICATIONS.:NoNo:

"YOU WERE WARNED"

MY BB'S WILL KEEP UP WITH ANY "COBRA" EXHAUST AS FAR A LOUD GOES!!:thumbsup:

LOOK ME UP AT SHOW..WOULD BE PLEASED TO ASSIST YOU IN YOUR NEW HEARING AIDS!!!:lmao:

Click to expand...

His wife drives a Vette too!

My wife doesn't like loud, that's why I went with the Corsa's.

Ray,

It is really difficult to go to the various exhaust system websites because you may be able to hear the exhaust tone, you just cannot tell what the db level is until you are actually either in or behind the car with that exhaust.

That said, I still used it for reference. I have included a link to the Mid America on line catalogue. I am not suggesting that you purchase nor am I endorsing any vendor in particular. But this MidAmerica link had a pretty good discription of the increase in noise level for each of the exhaust they sell, at idle, under acceleration, and cruising. The link that I have included for you is for the systems they sell for the C6s and it includes most of the major brands. Some of them have recordings that you can listen to, but remember, you can get an idea of relative tone, but not true db level.

When I changed our '01 over to the Corsa Pace Car mufflers, I wanted to increase the db level over stock at idle a little, I wanted to increase it significantly under WOT, but did not want a significant increase in the cockpit while cruising. The information on this sight at least pointed me in the right direction. Good luck, and remember what someone else just recommended, if you want Momma to ride in the car with you, make sure she has bought into whatever system you put on.

Rich

http://content.madirect.com/offers/corvette/techtips/c6iacchart.html

Apparently the McDonalds and Hooters are right next to each other. Here is the address for the Hooters.

Hooters
10023 Adamo Drive
Tampa, FL 33619

Ferman Chevrolet
9751 Adamo Drive
Tampa, FL 33619

I believe the Hooters is just to the east.

We can figure out a time later in the week for everyone to meet there so we can park together.

Scott

Looking forward to it!

:wavey: Man o Man .... I don't know what kind of household you're running over there???
(hi guys)


But it sounds Just like mine!:lmao:

My preference is Magnaflow, as I have it on ALL of my vehicles (2 Vettes, my Duramax dually, and a custom bent system I built for my wife's Suburban). To anybody that asks me about resonance (drone), I tell them this:

All high-performance exhaust will resonate to one degree or another. If it bothers you, leave it stock! Dealing with this (or other issues like it) is all part of owning a high-performance automobile. X-pipes help in cancelling resonance (in addition to adding some HP), but the possibility still exists.

That being said, for a C5, Magnaflows come in two flavors, standard and MagnaPak (real mean MFer sound). It's all in what you like.

FYI, I'm running a sale on all Magnaflow systems through the end of the year... PM me for details, or drop me an email (or look in my CAC folder).

MADN3SS said:

His wife drives a Vette too!

My wife doesn't like loud, that's why I went with the Corsa's.

Click to expand...

The wife and I have been cruising around a bit since we've gotten her Vette, and I can tell ya's this... when she pulls up next to me at a light and rev's it up (infront of all who are on the road), I fall a bit short with my stock system! :toetap05:
I noticed a girl in a car smiling at me, with That Look, like I was just spanked by a woman!
Anyway, The Gloves Are OFF!:hehehe:


Ray

ynkedad said:

I noticed a girl in a car smiling at me, with That Look, like I was just spanked by a woman!

Anyway, The Gloves Are OFF!:hehehe:

Click to expand...

:spank2: :spank2: :spank2:

Ray, maybe a little too much information, bud!?!? :lmao: :lmao:

I've got the Magnaflow on mine and would like something louder. I like the deep tone at idle but could use some more exhaust noise. Don't mind the drone. I'm not sure what system Robert has on his but it's louder than mine. On my '92 I had Flowmasters and loved them. Robert wouldn't ride with me cause it was too loud for him....:shrug01:
I'm telling you, you'll have lots of folks revving their motors at the Tampa show to show off their pipes :yesnod:

I am looking for exhaust for my 2000. My previous car a 71vette I must have had 4 different mufflers in 1 month. I don't want to do that again and am looking to hearing some cars at shows coming up. I don't want too much drone or resonance. Someone told me Borla Stingers with an x-pipe.