I want to change the sound characteristics of my 96 LT4. If performance improves that would be a bonus too. One mechanic suggested that I replace the stock catalytic converter with Random Technology high flow cats. Can someone weigh in on whether it is a worthwhile mod? Also, is this an easy do-it-yourself job? The exhaust system is all stock at this point. I have considered a corsa cat back system for about 1200 installed; and hooker long tube headers for about 1000 installed. There are lots of members singing the praises of those two mods. But, I have seen too many guys running low 12's without headers.

 

Random Tech Cats.....
At least these are my thoughts...been there done that....
tony
:cheers:

 

Random Tech or CarSound is the way to go.

 

Well considering the cost of a set on Random Tech cats I would only do it if you plan on replacing the entire exhaust with headers and a cat-back system as well simply because the Random Tech stock-replacement cats aren't THAT much better than the stock LT4 ones...yes they are better, but IMO can't justify the cost. Plus, if you plan on going to long-tube headers later you'll have to get rid of them. If you want to get your LT4 moving without really getting into the engine I'd do this...

- 4.09 Gears - cost varies, usually around 800-1100$ installed-
- Long tube headers - go with either TPIS or Exotic Muscle, I personally recommend the EM units, they are by far the best fit longtubes I have seen on LT cars...very easy install, plus they are cheaper than the TPI units, you may still be able to get a set at the intro price of 640$ coated
- Decent cat-back system - I personally like the Corsa system, it has good gains and a nice sound with zero resonence (sp?) in the cabin
- Bullet cats - if you want them, or need to pass a sniffer test...here's where I would recommend the Random Tech metal matrix cats...very expensive, but they are the best flowing cat you can get
- The normal cheap stuff - K&N filter, open lid, throttle body bypass etc...

You can do them in just about any order you want, but you'll definatly notice a nice improvement! :cheers:

 

sorry Zix, I am a little confused by the statement: Plus, if you plan on going to long-tube headers later you'll have to get rid of them. Are you saying that I will have to get rid of the RT Cats or the stock cats if I go with headers later on?

 

You'll have to replace your stock cats with a bullet cat if you go with long tube headers. Zix gave your very good advice above. (I'd personally recommend 4.10 gears, but either work). As far as cats, check into magnaflow. They are cheaper than RT, and flow better than the basic RT series. Their smaller cat is pn 94309 or 54309 I believe.

Another option, is to keep your factory exhaust pipes and just replace the mufflers and add the headers and high flow cats. The factory pipes are 2.75" and you have to a little fab work to getting all that stuff lined up and on anyway. Oh, then there's the x-pipe too...

 

If you get the direct fit cats from Random Tech, it replaces the stock cats, connects to the stock manifolds. If you upgrade to LT headers later then you need bullitt cats (not the direct fit style). If you are looking for exhaust tone, I would do the Corsa System, 8 and a quarter for the exhaust and you should be able to get it installed for 100-125. Pair of direct fit RT cats gonna be like 6 and some change (can we quote prices), plus installation there is not easy unless your cats have recently been out (the manifold bolt threads like to gall )

 

The stock replacement Random Tech cats will not bolt up to Long Tube headers they are meant to only bolt up to stock manifolds...you need their Bullet cats. Conversly, bullet cats will not bolt up to stock manifolds. Sorry for the confusion! :cheers:

 

I bpought my corsa system and had it installed for about 835, not 1200. I went through tbyrnemotorsports.com. The sound is awesome and there is a define perfomance gain - all without messing with the cats.
:cheers:

 

I'm gonna give tbyrne a call tomorrow. Can't help but notice that they have an unsatisfactory rating at http://www.bosbbb.org/reports/reliab...mId=0000082387 though. But, the price is right. I would really get a warm fuzzy if some more members would give the thumbs up to tbyrne. I am way down in Texas and they are way up there in the north east.

 

Whom...or what are you talking about......don't understand your post....
So sorry..
tony
:confused: :eek: :confused:

 

Also consider thet SLP makes 'bullet' cats for C5's, that I see no reason why would not work on our C4's. (the cats don't know what car their going in) (unless your taking a cat to the vet. Then they know.) The price is fair on these as well. I have seen tham advertised from $299 to $399 for the pair, which also includes some extra exhaust tubing we might be able to make use of, which is also pre-tapped for 02 sensors. This would be the ticket for long tubes, which I am planning on. You can get the basic Hooker LT's from Jegs for $375.

And as far as the rest of the exhaust goes, cat-back etc. Dont waste your money on that fancy foriegn stuff if you don't have to. Just cut the mufflers off entirely. You can get a complete muff-elim kit with chrome tips from MAD for $199 ! Muff-elims are not as loud as you might think. The sound is agressive and very 'corvette'. Get rid of that restrictive boat anchor resonator and replace it with an x-pipe junction. ($75 to $99)

My total cost for my x-pipe and 'cat-back' kit, parts and labor, is $370 !!!
Deffinate SOTP and an awesome sound.
:cheers:


[Modified by BlackBeast2, 7:48 PM 6/24/2003]