X-pipe vs. H-pipe
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 110
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From: Cleveland Ohio
X-pipe vs. H-pipe
Ready to install my new exhaust set-up and was wondering about the difference between the X-pipe/H-pipe for high performance street application (I already have the X-pipe ready to install).
I know I read somewhere about the benefit of each respectively, but can't recall offhand – I imagine the sound may be different as well.
Thanks for the heads-up.
I know I read somewhere about the benefit of each respectively, but can't recall offhand – I imagine the sound may be different as well.
Thanks for the heads-up.
Race Director
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 18,484
Likes: 1
From: Everyday you must choose between the pain of discipline and the pain of regret. Fredericktown, OH
Re: X-pipe vs. H-pipe (johnboy89)
The correct answer is quite long, but the concept of each is to create balance in the exhaust to enhance the scavengin effect of the system. H-pipes work by creating an outlet to the other side for the exhaust gasses. The X-pipe more or less naturally drives the gasses to both sides more efficiently because the tubes are siamesed. This creates a "vacuum" effect on the side not firing at that time and when it does, the gas leaving both sides helps draw the exhaust gasses from the head.
When I bought my X-pipe for my old race car, I spoke to the folks at Dr. Gas and they give a great explanation of the difference. From my conversation with them and others about x-pipes, they appear to be more efficient at helping the exhaust scavenge gasses from the motor - enhancing horsepower. When I installed the Dr.Gas and 3' flowmasters on a low 11 second nova (that was pretty well tuned as I raced EVERY weekend for years), the car picked up a tenth and 2 MPH. Additionally it was quieter and idled more smootly. I am a believer and will have one on my vette eventially (I only got it in January).
In closing, either would be an improvement of two independent sides, but I recommend the X. I may not have explained this well. Perhaps others may have info to add.
When I bought my X-pipe for my old race car, I spoke to the folks at Dr. Gas and they give a great explanation of the difference. From my conversation with them and others about x-pipes, they appear to be more efficient at helping the exhaust scavenge gasses from the motor - enhancing horsepower. When I installed the Dr.Gas and 3' flowmasters on a low 11 second nova (that was pretty well tuned as I raced EVERY weekend for years), the car picked up a tenth and 2 MPH. Additionally it was quieter and idled more smootly. I am a believer and will have one on my vette eventially (I only got it in January).
In closing, either would be an improvement of two independent sides, but I recommend the X. I may not have explained this well. Perhaps others may have info to add.
