Engine performance is a high priority for many car owners. They want their car to reach top speeds and emit high-quality sounds as they race down roads. If your car’s performance is underwhelming, an exhaust upgrade can help your engine achieve optimal power.
A cat-back exhaust improves engine power, fuel economy, sound quality and more. These systems have pipes that connect the catalytic converter to other essential components. The system lets more exhaust exit the car, boosting performance and efficiency. Learn more about the cat-back exhaust and how it can enhance your driving experience.
What Is a Cat-Back Exhaust?
The cat-back exhaust is the area in the exhaust system behind the catalytic converter. The system consists of a pipe that connects the catalytic converter to the muffler. It also links the muffler to the exhaust tips.
Car owners invest in cat-back systems to boost vehicle performance. The pipe’s large diameter and connection to other exhaust components improve vehicle efficiency and operation. By linking the catalytic converter, muffler and exhaust tips, cat-back systems enhance exhaust flow. They create a smoother and more accessible path for exhaust to exit the car. The cat-back exhaust also lets the engine cycle with more speed and efficiency. The more efficiently your engine works, the more power it emits.
Another significant thing a cat-back does is increase sound volume. Cat-back exhaust sounds are significantly louder than a regular system, emphasizing the enhanced engine power.
Cat-back vs. Straight-Pipe
Another type of exhaust system is a straight-pipe. Understanding the differences between these systems and cat-back systems can help you to decide your preference.
These are the major differences between the two types:
- Internal components: In straight-pipe exhausts, the pipe begins at the exhaust manifold. The pipe runs directly from the cylinder head to the exhaust tip. Unlike cat-back systems, they don’t feature catalytic converters or mufflers. Exhaust flows freely into the atmosphere without being converted. Without the muffler and catalytic converter, your car reaches maximum horsepower and efficiency.
- Emissions levels: Because straight-pipe exhaust systems don’t convert exhaust gases, they release more harmful emissions. In contrast, cat-back systems use catalytic converters to filter out harmful byproducts, making them cleaner vehicles. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has emissions standards you must meet to use your vehicle on the road. Depending on your car’s level of emissions and your state’s standards, the straight-pipe exhaust might not even be allowed.
- Sound quality: Both cat-back and straight-pipe systems increase your engine’s sounds as you drive. A cat-back system has a muffler to reduce some engine sounds, emitting clearer noises. Because a straight-pipe system doesn’t have a muffler, you can hear every sound the engine creates. The extreme volume might not meet local noise regulations or might become distracting as you drive.
Overall, a straight-pipe exhaust system can reach the highest horsepower. However, the excessive emissions and noise might make these cars unfit for driving on regular roads. Many racecars use straight-pipe systems because race tracks don’t require the same noise restrictions.
5 Reasons to Consider a Cat-Back Exhaust
Cat-back exhausts provide many benefits for drivers. Here are some major reasons to purchase one:
1. Increased Horsepower
If you’re interested in increasing your car’s engine performance, a cat-back exhaust is an excellent choice. Adding a cat-back exhaust to the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) system lets your car reach higher horsepower. The pipes’ wider diameter allows more space for the free flow of air.
You can gain maximum benefits from a cat-back exhaust when it fits your vehicle’s exact specifications. The cat-back exhaust should have sufficient room with the catalytic converter and other components. You can explore cat-back systems to find the best fit for your car’s model and year. For instance, a cat-back exhaust for a third-generation Mustang is different from a sixth-generation cat-back system.
2. Improved Fuel Economy
Your car’s fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for monthly costs. The better your fuel economy, the less you are likely to have to spend on gas. A cat-back exhaust investment can improve your car’s fuel usage, lowering the need to constantly refill your tank.
Because the system streamlines airflow, the engine uses less power to convert exhaust fumes. The process reduces the engine’s workload, causing it to use less fuel. You might experience increased vehicle miles per gallon, especially on highways.
3. Enhanced Sound
Engine sounds are important to many drivers — they show off your car’s power as you drive. Cat-back systems give your car a unique sound, adding to its appeal. They fit with your specific engine and muffler to create a signature noise every time you drive. The large pipe diameter is optimal for acoustics, letting more sound escape. The system’s muffler filters out excessive or unwanted noises, ensuring a sharp and clean sound.
4. Improved Handling
Cat-back exhausts can also assist with vehicle handling. They often weigh less than the OEM exhaust, decreasing your car’s overall weight. It becomes easier to handle your car with the lighter load. You can turn or stop your car more smoothly. Enhanced handling improves your driving experiences for safer travels.
5. Easy Installation
Cat-back exhausts are available for most vehicle models and specifications, letting drivers boost their car’s performance no matter the model. Once you find the best fit, you can move forward with installation.
They’re easy to install — you just bolt them into place after removing the original exhaust. After you attach them, no modifications are necessary. You can also ask professional technicians for assistance if you’re unsure about a DIY process.
Shop for Cat-Back Exhaust Parts With Top Flight Automotive
A cat-back exhaust increases your vehicle’s performance and can provide many other benefits for drivers. If you’re interested in purchasing a cat-back exhaust, browse Top Flight Automotive’s online offerings today.
We carry a wide range of cat-back exhaust systems and parts for Corvettes, Mustangs, Camaros, and more. Our online inventory is available 24/7, letting you get started with your project whenever you need. Top Flight Automotive sets itself apart from competitors with our broad and high-quality product selection. We carry items from leading brands to ensure customers receive durable and top-quality products.
You can use our search functions and filters to find the cat-back system that best meets your needs. If you have any questions about the process, our team is ready to help. To get started with Top Flight Automotive, shop cat-back exhaust systems online today.
Sources:
- https://www.epa.gov/regulations-emissions-vehicles-and-engines
- https://www.topflightautomotive.com/products/ford/mustang/third-generation/performance/exhaust-cat-back/
- https://www.topflightautomotive.com/products/ford/mustang/sixth-generation/parts/exhaust-cat-back/
- https://www.topflightautomotive.com/products/performance/exhaust-cat-back/
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