Most drivers don't realize it, but it takes your engine some effort to rid itself of exhaust fumes ? effort that can better be used to power the vehicle. Performance exhaust systems are one way to minimize this cause of engine power loss; in addition, many performance exhaust systems create a really cool-sounding, throaty roar when you put the pedal to the metal. Here's the lowdown on some of today's leading performance exhaust systems.



The Advantages of High Flow, Low-Resistance Exhaust Systems

It's just vapor, isn't it? Yes, it is. Nonetheless, narrow-bore, restrictive exhaust pipes with lots of twists and bends can make it a great deal more difficult for your pistons to push out waste gases during the exhaust stroke.

The fact is that by providing the smoothest, widest and most direct exit for exhaust, it is possible to improve engine performance and raise horsepower by up to 20% in many cases. This is the fundamental principle behind performance exhaust systems.

Different Pipes For Different Types

There is no lack of choices when it comes to performance exhaust systems ? and there are dozens of companies producing them as well. Unlike the stock exhaust system ? which was most likely assembled in China using inferior materials and underpaid, unmotivated and unskilled labor ? most performance exhaust systems are 100% made in the USA from the best materials by American workers who still take pride in craftsmanship.

Performance exhaust systems begin with custom headers, or exhaust manifolds. These typically have a much wider opening than stock headers, allowing exhaust gases to quickly pass into the exhaust system.

Of course, you can't get around having a catalytic converter ? not if you want to drive legally and still be environmentally responsible, anyway ? but you can certainly compensate with ?catback? (behind the catalyst) systems. These performance exhaust systems have large diameter, mandrel-bent tubing made from stainless steel that allows exhaust gases to exit the system with as little back pressure as possible.

Different performance exhaust systems have different configurations, and which ones work the best depends on who you talk to. Some swear by the ?X-Pipe? configuration, which in theory equalizes the exhaust pressure from the two banks of cylinders in V-6, V-8 and V-12 engines. Other performance auto enthusiasts say they're not necessary. If you're in the market for a performance exhaust system, you'll want to do some research on this issue and make up your own mind ? then come back to our shop for your X-Pipe, Y-Pipe, or any other kind of performance exhaust system you may decide to install in your ride.

All The Top Brands

Today's leading names in performance exhaust systems include MagnaFlow, Flowmaster, and Borla, the products of which have been used by some of the top professional racing drivers in the world. In fact, we carry performance exhaust systems by thirty-five different leading aftermarket manufacturers, with kits available for almost every make and model of vehicle on the road today, including both domestic and imports.