Cat Back Vs Muffler

66nova · August 7, 2008

Great site guys!

I just recently upgraded my 1995 GMC that I have had for 12 years for a 2007 LTZ CC VMax and I am loving it. But it is time to make some performance changes already.

I have already emailed Justin at Black Bear and he's great. I definitely plan on utilizing him, but he recommended I make any other changes I want to make prior to his tune.

So that brings me here. I am trying to figure out the big advantages to going with a $600+ cat back system over just cutting out the muffler and replacing it with a Magna Flow. I have also considered removing the resonator (I don't really want a loud exhaust or a lot of cabin sound, so??).

Is there a big advantage to the cat back? If we a just talking 10hp difference then I'm not really sure it is worth the price.

I have the same question about a CAI is it that much better than just installing a K&N??

I need your experiences and opinions. Taking looks out of the equation, is the price of a CAI and Cat back really worth it after Justin gets his hands on it?

Thanks guys

Zembonez · August 8, 2008

Replacing the muffler with the magnaflow will give you 95% of any increases that a catback system will give you. Catback just gives you more options for outlet types and placement. There really isn't a lot scientifically that is any different. (although you may have people come here and claim otherwise) I think it really boils down to what you like. Catback systems are nice but can get expensive for sure.

Good luck with it.

EDIT: Oh yeah... WELCOME from the Crazy Clown.

biggjay96x · August 8, 2008

I picked up my Magnaflows duels for 495, great deal.

biggjay96x · August 8, 2008

pic

66nova · August 8, 2008

Thanks Zembonez,

That is exactly the kind of info I was looking for. Esp. from a fellow Texan although, Im not sure where Cibolo is. I'm in Fort Worth.

This is an awesome site with some great information.

huero626 · August 8, 2008

Good to see you're going with a good tuner, I went Justin and he made my V-Max a completely different truck. IMO I would just get a Magnaflow muffler and a AEM Cold Air Intake and after that go with 91 octane performance tune. When u tune the truck post to see how your truck responded to the mods.

Zembonez · August 8, 2008

Thanks Zembonez,

That is exactly the kind of info I was looking for. Esp. from a fellow Texan although, Im not sure where Cibolo is. I'm in Fort Worth.

This is an awesome site with some great information.

I'll be in Fort Worth tomorrow! My new camper shell came in and I have to drive up and get it.

Cibolo is near San Antonio.

2000DV4.8 · August 8, 2008

Thanks Zembonez,

That is exactly the kind of info I was looking for. Esp. from a fellow Texan although, Im not sure where Cibolo is. I'm in Fort Worth.

This is an awesome site with some great information.

I'll be in Fort Worth tomorrow! My new camper shell came in and I have to drive up and get it.

Cibolo is near San Antonio.

Finally! When did you order that damn thing?

66nova · August 8, 2008

huero, thanks I will definitely post after I get the tune. I am really looking forward to it.

I do have a few more questions for you all

1) Will cutting my old muffler out and welding in a new one do anything to my warranty?

2) I have been reading some about a "drone" while in the 4 cylinder mode with some exhaust systems. Is this a real problem? I don't want a loud exhaust. I just want a good sound with maybe a little better flow. I was considering something an 18" Magnaflow. Good Choice??

3) Does anyone know what size the factory pipe is on my 6.0 VMax? I thought I read that it was a 3in, but It looks like a 2.5. I can get a set of calipers or a tape measure, but I thought someone might know.

Thanks, Robert