20FS

what exacaly is a cat back exhaust? why is it better than other types of exhaust?

rowan

Cat-back exhaust replaces all the pipes from your catalytic convertor all the way back to, and usually including, the muffler.

For performance gains, they are usually a slightly larger size of pipe than stock, and have mandrel bends which means it is the same size all the way through the pipe (instead of compression bends which is how stock pipes are bent).

The stock muffler is also typically replaced with a straight-through muffler.

Better flow = happier engine.

That's my 50 cent summary. Anyone care to add/correct/clarify anything?

Sir Nuke

what the name says...Cat Back...which means you are replaceing everything from the CATalytic converter BACK to the rear of the car....

then there are the AXLE Back systems...which most systems have a bolted joint near the axle...and those systems just replace the exhaust system from there back.

NOW, most aftermarket systems have larger tubing than the stock systems...which flow better and more...thus it releieves some of the restrictions in the system...allowing it to make more power.

20FS

ahhh i see.. thanx guys! so what would it be called if you replace the entire pipe cat and all, from the exaust manifold and back? 1 big strait pipe?

Sir Nuke

an exhaust system. :{D

rowan

*lol*

you shouldn't take cats out of your exhaust system unless you're making a full race car. :P

plus you would be fucked if it was one big pipe .. what if you had to do some work under the car? the joints are in there for a reason ... plus it allows some give in the pipes without breaking.

carguycw

It's not that hard for a muffler shop to weld in a flex pipe or a flex joint to avoid breakage.

Eric F

I'm amazed no one else said this, but for future reference, try using the search function. Most of these basic questions have been answered in great detail already. Not to mention there is probably quite a bit of additional information available that you will find useful if you are thinking about an exhaust upgrade.

YellowPR5

<RANT>I got an idea. Why don't we just post the ******* FAQ on this page and get rid of the ******* forum. That seems to be what all the moderators want. </RANT>

Serious note... see my suggestion post ---->HERE!

Sir Nuke

no its not yellow......as you can see...I answered the questions.

:{D