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I don't know about performance improvement but I added the Bassain X after listening to others. It made a big difference in the sound with the Corsa Indy's.
The real difference between an H-pipe and an X-pipe is that the H-pipe has a high frequency/RPM cut-off that the X-pipe does not.
A GM V8 has a firing order of LRLLRLRR. This is decidely imbalanced, and causes the need for an H-pipe or X-pipe. The doubled up LL and RR firing pulses are the cause of the idle burble and cause irregularities in the exhaust pulses traveling down the exhaust manifold/header. An H-pipe is an inexpensive means to allow the doubled up LL and RR pulses to use the "other" exhaust system. But since there is a 90 degree angle from the exhaust through the tube, above a certain exhaust velocity, the pulse has trouble turning the entrance corner and turning the exit corner on the H-pipe. Therefore, the H-pipe looks like it is connecting the R and L exhayst systems below a certain RPM, and above that RPM it looks like the H-pipe is not there at all.
The X-pipe does not have this rpm cut-off and works over the entire rev range. In addition, in an X-pipe system, not only are the exhaust pulses re-balanced, but they have equal access to either exhaust outlet, and the flow tends to separate and travel down both exhausts--thereby--finding a lower resistance, which in turn promotes lower back pressure.
I thought I recall some folks leaving in the factory H-pipe and adding an x-pipe?
I did because I don't believe it makes any difference once the X-pipe is installed. The reason I did it was to help ensure tip alignment and length. The car ended up sounding great (had the A&A mod installed at the same time) and the tips are perfectly aligned. It's the way I would do it again.
Ed
My 97 had the large diameter H pipe. I replaced it with the X pipe for the sound. I didn't expect any gain in power. Put the X pipe on and the sound is MUCH cleaner. No more motor boat gurgling sound on decel and just sounds very healthy at all rpm's. I didn't notice an increase in power though. I'm assuming there was, but probably not much.
RG, do you know how big the holes are in the "X" on the 2 you have pictures of? how about others? it seems to me a 2" hole in an "H" pipe would be better than a 1" hole in an "X" pipe. Are the holes also bigger, I guess is my question? :crazy: