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Should You Put An Exhaust System On Your Truck?

Author: 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.

Fortunately, the factory exhaust system is efficient and doesn't require much modification for you to improve it. The first component in your exhaust system is the exhaust manifold, the part that directs exhaust from individual cylinders into one or two main exhaust pipes. Most exhaust manifolds are pretty efficient and don't require replacement, but if you decide you'd like to replace this part, then you're going to look at a set of headers. A good set of headers will offer a ceramic coating, as well as factory mounting points for sensors. Again, most of the time the factory exhaust manifold is just fine.

The next components which the exhaust gases travel through are the catalytic converters. There's really no benefit to changing or modifying these, and taking them off is a bad idea. Today's modern catalytic converter is very efficient and legally required, so it makes sense to leave it alone. You would only consider replacing the factory catalytic if you were adding an extremely powerful engine upgrade, like a turbocharger or supercharger.

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.

Changing the factory muffler on your truck for an after market muffler will make the biggest change to your exhaust system, so it's the obvious move to make. Here are some things to consider about after market mufflers:

First, ask yourself if you really want to be hearing the exhaust ALL the time. If you do, make sure to take that into account when selecting your muffler. If you'd prefer not to hear the muffler in the background as you're driving down the highway, choose a muffler that's not described as loud. You can look online or at your local muffler shop for more help on finding the perfect muffler. There are even sound clips on many muffler manufacturers' websites now so you can hear what your muffler will sound like before you buy.

Second, do you want something that people can slightly hear when you drive by, or do you want something so loud that the neighbors know exactly what time you leave for work every morning? Words like "racing" or "glasspack" usually indicate exceptionally loud mufflers, so watch out for those terms unless you want a lot of attention.

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.