Does Your Truck Need an Exhaust System?

by: JasonLancaster
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Most trucks are quite powerful - that's probably why you own one. Trucks are made to haul and tow thousands of pounds without difficulty, so they need lots of power. Yet despite their powerful engines, most manufacturers equip their new vehicles with a relatively quiet exhaust system. If you think your truck ought to sound as powerful as it is, or if you'd like to reduce some of the constrictions in your truck's exhaust, then you're probably considering adding to or changing your factory exhaust system.

Luckily for you, the factory exhaust system on your truck is efficient, and can be easily improved with just a few modifications. The exhaust manifold is the first component of the exhaust system. It directs exhaust from each cylinder together into one or two main exhaust pipes. These are usually fairly efficient and don't need to be replaced. If you decide to change them though, find a good set of headers with ceramic coating and factory mounting points for sensors. Usually though, the factory exhaust manifold will be perfectly fine for your needs.

The catalytic converters are the next stop for exhaust gases as they travel through your truck. It's not exactly a good idea to take these off - your factory catalytic is already very efficient and a legal requirement on your vehicle, so you'll want them to stay on your truck. The only time replacing the standard catalytic on your truck might be a consideration is if you were adding a very powerful upgrade, such as a turbocharger or supercharger, to your engine.

After the catalytic converters, the exhaust gases cool somewhat and enter the muffler. Again, the factory exhaust system is pretty good and the standard mufflers aren't very restrictive. Replacing them usually won't result in a significant hp or torque gain...3-5 hp and 5-10 ft-lbs of torque on average. However, after market mufflers will make your truck sound much better. The rumble you'll hear with after market mufflers is exciting, and well worth the cost. After leaving the mufflers, the exhaust will exit out of the tailpipe. Tailpipe tips are a popular add-on, but they're decorative only, and have no impact on your exhaust system's performance.

Since changing the factory muffler will have the biggest effect on your exhaust system, they're the most logical component to replace. When you're looking at after market mufflers, here are some things to consider:

First, do you want to hear the exhaust ALL the time? In other words, when you drive down the highway, is a little exhaust drone OK? If not, make sure you choose a muffler that's not described as being loud. Check the web and ask your local muffler shop for advice on finding a good muffler. Many muffler manufacturers are even putting sound clips on their websites now.

Second, how loud do you want your truck to be? Do you want something that turns heads, or something that will drown out the neighbours? Extra loud mufflers usually have words like "racing" or "glasspack" in the description, so go for these models only if you're ready to be the loudest thing everywhere you go.

Also important to consider is whether the new muffler is a single or dual exhaust. If your factory exhaust system came with a single exhaust muffler, then your truck will work just as well with a single after market exhaust system. Dual exhaust systems are more expensive, but you'll get a nicer sound and better look. If you use a dual exhaust, check that your installer works around the trailer hitch and/or leaves room for one so you can add it later if you choose.

Your final decision is which exhaust material system you'll use. The right material for you will depend on where you're located geographically. If it's anywhere near a saltwater body, buy stainless steel. It may cost more, but stainless steel will be a wise investment since the saltwater in your environment is harsh on regular galvanized or aluminized steel. Drivers in dry climates won't really benefit from the extra cost of stainless steel, since it'll take years for rust damage to occur if it gets into the system.

About the Author

Author Jason Lancaster, an auto business veteran, created AccurateAutoAdvice.com. You'll find accurate tips for buying a car and auto advice.  

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