Frequently Asked Questions |
Q. Why does it cost more?
A. The most commonly used metals in the manufacture of exhaust systems are
rusty mild steel, aluminized steel or an inferior 400-series stainless. All BEST EXHAUST brands use high quality austenitic stainless steel. It costs more than the other
lesser grades of steel. To cut, bend and hand weld this grade of stainless
steel takes special equipment too. Ask your local muffler shop if they can
make a smooth, precision mandrel bend in a 2.50” 201 or 304 Stainless
Steel pipe for you. You won’t find many that can, and it won’t be cheap. Add
to this pressure testing, dyno testing, excellent warranties and the years of race
winning technology that go into the systems sold by BEST EXHAUST, and you will
see why we have so many loyal, repeat customers. These systems are actually very
cost effective when you take into account the fact that most exhaust systems
will need replacement within 18 months to 4 years while a 302 stainless exhaust is
designed to last the life of your vehicle.
Q. What does it sound like?
A. Non-OEM Cat-Back systems have a deeper, throatier tone than stock. Some systems have variable volume & tone, through the use of exhaust valves and remote controllers or valve control units.
Q. Is a bigger pipe and muffler system better?
A. In normally aspirated vehicles, no, there has to be a balanced design to enhance the maximum engine
output, exhaust gas velocity, and sound. If the diameter of the tubing is too
large, the exhaust gas velocity will be reduced and rob the exhaust of thermal efficiency. In turbocharged vehicles, for optimum performance, exhaust sizes should be made as big as practical, taking into account noise and under-vehicle space.
Q. My new car came with Stainless Steel exhaust from the factory! What’s
the difference?
A. Material Difference: Many new-model cars and trucks come factory-equipped with
a low grade, 400 series stainless steel exhaust. These are an improvement from
the old, rusty steel systems and are built to improve durability somewhat. Also,
the inferior grade of stainless is the only cheap material that will last through the
factory warranty period. But, ferritic stainless steels, which are part of the 400
series of stainless alloys, are magnetic, as compared to Austenitic stainless steels,
which are part of the 200 & 300 series of stainless alloys and are non-magnetic.
Our brands incorporate Austenitic stainless, which is superior for automotive
exhaust because it exhibits higher hardness and yield strength as well as excellent
ductility. And, the higher nickel and chromium content makes it much more
resistant to corrosion. Because these austenitic alloys are higher grade materials
and harder to work with, they are therefore too expensive for the vehicle manufacturers to supply. High
quality, austenitic stainless allows our manufacturers and us to back our systems.
Performance Difference: High-end non-original
exhausts are also tuned to maximize the performance output of your vehicle and
feature a more attractive and cost effective package than stock.
Q. Can I install these systems myself?
A. Yes, many of our customers enjoy installing their systems. Just be
sure you have good clearance and access under your vehicle, have the
proper tools, observe standard safety procedures, and ensure the vehicle is
secured by approved jack stands. We do, however, recommend you have a
professional installer do the work, especially for a manifold installation. For value systems, it is highly recommended your system is fitted by a professional.
Q. Do I need to make any modifications to my vehicle to install the system?
A. Not unless stated, although some imported systems may need minor adjustments due to differences in manufacture of Australian model vehicles. All necessary installation hardware is included in
the kit.