Hi CF, I have a 2000 vert, considering headers. The previous owner had replaced the h-pipe with an X - the cats appear to be the stock ones. I have no idea who the manufacturer of the x-pipe is.

Was wondering if I could use the stock cats and x-pipe with a set of Long Tubes or do I have to replace the cats and X to ensure fitment.

I have a Corsa Axleback which mated up fine with the X-Pipe if that at all matters.

Thanks

 

I don't think there is any way you could use Long tube Headers with stock cats and the stock cats if you could would kill any extra benifits of having Headers.

 

Although AFAIK the stock cats flow plenty well, they would at the very least have to be moved with most LT's. For this reason (and age) I'd opt for some new (I used MagnaFlow 3") cats.
P.S. A pic would help us identify if your cats are factory or not.

 

Most Headers come with a x-pipe made for them so it matches up with any Cat-Back system. I installed XS Power headers with high flows cats with x-pipe for under 900 dollars and I love the system !!!!

 

Thanks folks. I will try and take a pic of the cats this weekend. Car is lowered with side skirts so I need to raise it up to get access.

Pounder how was the install? I was thinking to go with Kooks as everything I read they are the easiest install.

 

Mine has Kooks, came with the mid pipes and high flow cats that connect to the axle backs (stock or after market). They also did not need extensions for the O2 sensors. I would not try to cobble together something that uses your stock cats and added x-pipe. Wouldn't save you much money anyway. You might even be able to sell old one with the added x-pipe.

 

easy !!! easier than spending twice as much for Kooks !!! IMO

 

What he said.

 

I wouldn't try to piece it together.. just buy the headers with the new x-pipe and cats. There are lots of great systems out there! TPS & XSPower systems are both very popular and VERY well priced.

I wouldn't spend the money on other brands that are twice as expensive when they all do the exact same thing. HP gains are going to be very similar between all systems as well.

 

You guys convinced me, going with a package is the best route to take. Thanks for all the responses. Just need to squirrel away a few more pennies, need to include install cost. I don't think this is a job I want to take on myself...

 

I know it is somewhat subjective but how much louder is the high flow cats system than the stock when you also add headers?

 

If you measured the sound level of aftermarket "high-flow cats" to stock cats, I doubt there would be much if any difference, as the stock cats flow quite well.
Adding headers will increase the sound level somewhat, but depends on what else you do. If you also install an X pipe in place of the H, it pretty much evens things out IME. I installed TSP headers, Magnaflow cats and X, and I'd say at idle it is the same volume. Maybe 15-20% louder at WOT? But also sounds much nicer!!

 

Is that TSP or texas speed headers? How were they to install? Their prices seem very good.

 

Sorry; TSP = Texas Speed (and Performance).
I've done 4-5 header installs, always alone, this one was maybe a bit tighter than most, but nothing bad.
The tubes hang a bit low, seen others with the same, and others not. Never bottomed out.


Biggest issue was my flanges were crazy warped, had to have them milled, but haven't heard anyone else have the same. And mine were 3+ years ago.

 

Very good choice IMO. Best of luck with the install when you get ready.