Aftermarket Exhaust System: Improve Overall Performance, Sound and Looks

If you’re looking for ways to upgrade your 4WD experience on the off-road, then you’ve probably come across at least a couple of articles and forum posts claiming that the best way to do it is by upgrading your exhaust system. And I couldn’t agree more – by improving your exhaust system you improve torque, horsepower and your engine has better fuel economy. Plus, an exhaust system can improve your vehicle’s looks.

The reason why a lot of people look to replace their stock exhaust, is because it’s not made with performance in mind. Stock exhausts are built to be affordable, in order for the entire vehicle to have a lower price tag and make it more attractive for more buyers. If you’re a gearhead, however, it’s no surprise that you’re looking for more torque and power, and an affordable solution to your problem.

Most stock exhaust systems are made of mild steel, while aftermarket performance exhast systems, like the DMAX exhaust system (manufactured from Manta – premier Australian exhaust manufacturer), are manufactured of aluminised or stainless steel. Aluminised and stainless steel are rust and corrosion resistant, and far more durable.

Moreover, stock exhaust systems have crush bending pipes, which cause restrictions in the engine’s “breathing” process. This is an easy and quick technique used by most car manufacturers. On the other hand, a DMAX exhaust system has mandrel bent tubing, which removes the restrictions and doesn’t allow the pipe walls to kink or collapse. This results in a consistent pipe diameter with no restrictions in the bends.

Besides improving horsepower and torque, it can also give your 4WD a deep growl and better looks. The reason for this is the fact that the muffler on an aftermarket system doesn’t restrict the sound as much. However, you have to be careful about how loud your vehicle is in the streets, as there are certain rules and regulations regarding that. The exhaust tip on the other hand, is there for aesthetic purposes and you can choose between single and dual exhaust tips.

And lastly, aftermarket exhausts feature high-flow catalytic converters, also known as cats. These parts do one of the most important jobs in the entire system as they reduce the amount of emissions your 4WD produces.

When buying an aftermarket exhaust system, buy an entire package, else you’re just moving the restrictive parts from one place to another and won’t see much improvement. All parts should be made of the same material, as each and every one of them plays an important role in how your vehicle performs, sounds, looks and reduces emission.