With so many performance exhaust systems available, how can you be sure you select the right one for your vehicle? Performance Muffler specializes in installing and serving cat-back exhaust systems so your car runs exactly how you want it. Discover how a cat-back system differs from other performance exhaust systems, understand its benefits, and learn more about what specific features you should carefully consider before equipping your car with one.
What Are Cat-Back Exhaust Systems?
A cat-back exhaust system enhances your car’s horsepower while also giving the engine a better sound. Unlike factory exhaust systems, after-market exhaust systems like the cat-back system take your car’s performance up another few notches.
The name cat-back references the various parts of the exhaust that mechanics need to remove to result in this system’s configuration. It attaches to the car after the catalytic converter, or “cat.” This configuration includes a muffler, rear pipe, and resonator, though some models may feature additional parts.
Benefits of a Cat-Back Exhaust System
Cat-back exhaust systems offer many benefits to drivers looking for a better ride and engine sound. They amp up your vehicle’s horsepower capability in a way that stock exhaust systems can’t achieve. Anyone hoping for more power while driving should consider adding the effective cat-back system to their vehicle.
The installation process is fairly straightforward. Simply bolt the mechanism right in the space where the stock exhaust is and you’ll be good to go. Best of all, cat-back systems are available to fit nearly every make and model of car or truck.
One of the biggest benefits of installing a cat-back exhaust system is fuel efficiency. Believe it or not, this is one type of aftermarket performance exhaust system that contributes to greater fuel performance. It takes extra loads off the engine so it doesn’t need to exert as much gas through the pipes. You’ll achieve a better gas mileage rate and keep more money in your wallet thanks to your fuel savings.
Cat-Back Exhaust System Features to Consider
Now that you know some of the basics behind the cat-back system and the advantages it offers, let’s dive into notable features. You can improve your car’s performance even more by considering the following design features.
Split or Custom Design
Depending on your needs, a split cat-back system can give your car an edge. This design features an exhaust pipe that splits into two, along with a muffler and exhaust tips. If you don’t mind more noise, a split system is a solid option for reaping all the benefits of a cat-back exhaust system.
You can also opt for a custom design. This is especially useful for vehicles that mostly do off-road driving. You have the freedom to switch up the pipe’s curvature with a custom design so it best fits your needs.
Reach out to the skilled technicians at Performance Muffler if you are debating a custom cat-back system. We can equip this unique option in no time at all.
Type of Steel
All cat-back exhaust systems feature a sleek steel design. However, you have several different steel types you can choose from.
Experts recommend going with stainless steel over aluminized steel. You’ll receive a better, longer performance from your cat-back system when it features pure stainless steel. This is because it won’t corrode or oxidize over time, therefore minimizing the need for premature repairs or replacement.
Type of Muffler
Just as you choose the type of steel you want in a cat-back system, you also have a choice of mufflers. There are typically two choices for most systems: glasspack and straight-through mufflers.
A glasspack design will produce a much louder engine because it doesn’t have any materials to absorb the sound it emits. A straight-through muffler still gives off a bit of sound but is far quieter than the alternative.
Except for the sound output, there is little difference in the performance of these mufflers. Both options reduce pressure in the system fairly well. You can decide which style best suits you depending on your noise preference.
Overall Price
Always consider your budget when deciding on a cat-back exhaust system. This can impact the various features and performance of your product. For example, choosing aluminized steel over stainless steel cuts dollars off of the price tag, though it leaves you susceptible to corrosion.
In addition, choosing a custom design will inevitably cost more than sticking with the standard configuration. Decide how much you’re willing to spend and make your system adjustments accordingly.
Your Intentions
Why are you planning to get a cat-back exhaust system? Do you go off-roading a lot and want a custom designed cat-back to get a more powerful, rugged performance? Perhaps you do a lot of highway driving and are looking for a simple way to improve your gas mileage.
Decide what factors are most important to you and choose a cat-back system that checks off the most important boxes. Doing so can make a huge difference in the style you end up with, its longevity, and the total price tag. You are the only one that will be using it, so make sure you’re happy with your selection.
Get a Custom Cat-Back Exhaust System in Phoenix
If you are in the market for a custom cat-back exhaust system, Performance Muffler can help. We service and repair exhaust systems to give your vehicle more power. Call our Phoenix shop location at 602-691-6494 to learn more or schedule a service appointment.