Learning About Car Parts

Three Factors To Consider When Purchasing A Performance Exhaust System

11 May 2016

Mílton Da Cruz

When the average novice starts thinking of ways to enhance their vehicle, a performance exhaust system is often one of the first upgrades they consider. Since the exhaust plays such an important role in a vehicle's performance, it's imperative that you select your exhaust system wisely. If you're just starting to explore the world of aftermarket performance exhaust systems, here are just some of the factors you don't want to overlook on your search.

Material

What material is the exhaust system designed in? The most commonly available options are stainless steel and mild steel. They may even look similar, but you should be able to easily distinguish between the two options based on their price point. Mild steel is generally a lot cheaper than stainless steel.

When considering long-term performance, low cost shouldn't necessarily be your driving factor. The main reason that mild steel exhaust systems are less expensive is that that are susceptible to corrode and rust. Stainless steel is void these concerns. If you live in a climate that experiences high moisture levels in the form of snow or rain, stainless steel is definitely worth the investment.

Configuration

Is it a dual or single system? Dual systems are for vehicle owners looking to achieve maximum power. This configuration includes two pipes spanning from the header to the exhaust tips along with two mufflers that operate with their own exhaust tips. This allows for higher flow capabilities that can set a vehicle in motion quickly. If you're a sound enthusiast, dual configurations also produce louder growls due to its two mufflers.

Single configuration systems are on the lower ends of the price and power spectrum. This option includes a single exhaust and muffler that rest discreetly behind the axle. Since their pipe diameters are greater than original manufacturer designs, they do provide increased power, but still no comparison to dual systems.

Form

Exhaust systems come in two popular forms, mandrel bend and crush bend. These forms refer to the manner in which the exhaust pipes were constructed. When exhaust pipes are formed, they must be bent into shape. Mandrel bending involves the use of a flexible rod that is inserted inside the pipe during this forming process. The rod prevents the pipe from kinking or collapsing in any areas during this process.

With the crush bend method, the pipe is bent without any support. Consequently, crush bent pipes often have imperfections that minimize their diameter when compared to a mandrel bent pipe. The greater the diameter of a pipe, the greater the power of the exhaust.

For more information, contact Yearwood Performance Center or a similar company.

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