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Been thinking about installing a set of shorties (hooker, emiisions legal), ceramic coated. But I also recognize that a set of long tubes will give me bang for the buck (NTM $$$). Anybody out there done this set up and what where you SOTP or dyno results.
I went from running Hooker shorties/factory cats to EM long tubes/Dynatech PowerCats. I gained 5-10hp/10-12 tq across the dyno curve. Not a huge gain. But, I think my camshaft might have been holding the engine back.
I had shorties and switched back to manifolds. I couldn't tell the difference between them SOTPs. If you're going to spend the money, I'd recommend going for the long tubes if you want to feel a difference.
From: St. Peters MO Sometimes you have to prove yourself by doing alot of killing or alot of dying...
Originally Posted by STL94LT1
Actually, I didn't have a problem with the Hooker shorties. But, in my never ending need for more power, I upgraded to the long tubes.
EM: Exotic Muscle. EM often runs GP's on this forum.
Oh, a couple of weeks ago. I upgraded the camshaft/springs, again.
The Dynatech PowerCats will run you ~$150/each.
-Mike
"never ending quest for power" is a complete understatement!!! Mike's car is a MONSTER!!! Shorties will give you some gains, but not enough to justify the costs... plus you reach the power ceiling with shorties far to kwik.
I've got Hooker longtubes without the cats, and have picked up 30-40 hp with a custom tune. This is shown from my 1/4 mile times. So, I say it's worth it. With high-flow cats, you would be close.
Thank you all for the informative responses
The one thing (brain fade here) I did not mention is that
this vehicle was built in NY (95) and is now a California licensed and registered car.............I may have to stick with the Hooker shorties
or risk not passing the "Fume Squad"
I just ordered long tubes from EM and I believe they are going to do a GP soon. most folks seen to get more power from the LT headers and they seem to agree that the shorties look nice, weigh less, but don't do much.
I really don't think that shorties are worth the money for the slight increase in exhaust flow that you get. Especially if you are paying someone to do this install. If you really have to pass emmissions, long tubes with some type of high flow (ie, smaller than stock) cats should work out pretty well. This is just my $0.02 worth.