Exhaust ideas on new Tahoe

TahoeJeff · July 11, 2001

I just got a new 2001 Tahoe with a 5.3 , I was wondering if anyone has any ideas for a good deep sound. I have heard the flowmasters are good, but anyone have them on the Tahoe or would it sound the same as on a 5.3 Pickup? Also, I have also heard the Vortec is sensitive to backpressure for best performance, are there any concerns here?

PSM450 · July 11, 2001

I just put a Borla system on my 4.8 l Silverado a couple of days ago. Sounds good, no loss of low end torque and feels like it has more power from off idle to 5000rpm

gmcjoe · July 11, 2001

I have a 40 series Flowmaster, single in/dual out on my Sierra, I love the sound and performance gains on higher RPMs. Anytime you open up the exhaust on these Vortec engines, you will lose some low end torque (if that is your only mod).

Check out some other forums where this has been discussed in great detail if you haven't already;

LS1 Truck Forum

GM Truck and SUV forum

Shaners · July 11, 2001

Quote: from TahoeJeff on 11:05 pm on July 10, 2001
Also, I have also heard the Vortec is sensitive to backpressure for best performance, are there any concerns here?

The Vortech heads require backpressure to keep the torque in the lower RPM bands. Any free flowing exhaust will probably increase torque and HP but what good is it if you don't see it unless you are turning 4 grand or higher???

Pastmaster · July 13, 2001

Every motor needs some backpressure, but an aftermarket system WILL help alot. A neighbor of mine has a 00 Z71 shortbed with the 5.3L/5-speed. He has a single in-dual out flowmaster 50 delta flow, that sounds very good.

Are you wanting just a bolt in or a cat-back?