exhaust systems input
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: Benton Ar
exhaust systems input
Folks,
I'm a newbie here. Althought I have scanned past threads on this subject, I still need some input from folks who have installed headers, hi-flow cats, and mufflers. I have an 05 6-speed vert and I'm considering upgrading the exhaust system. I'm trying to weigh the performance gains per the cost and hassle of dealing with the installation and possible computer glitches. Heres where I need input. For those of you who have installed headers, hi-flow cats, and new mufflers, was it worth the expense to you. In other words, would you do it again. What about warranty issues? What about CEL codes, any problems with getting codes resolved? Anyone do the installation themselves? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
I'm a newbie here. Althought I have scanned past threads on this subject, I still need some input from folks who have installed headers, hi-flow cats, and mufflers. I have an 05 6-speed vert and I'm considering upgrading the exhaust system. I'm trying to weigh the performance gains per the cost and hassle of dealing with the installation and possible computer glitches. Heres where I need input. For those of you who have installed headers, hi-flow cats, and new mufflers, was it worth the expense to you. In other words, would you do it again. What about warranty issues? What about CEL codes, any problems with getting codes resolved? Anyone do the installation themselves? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
CF Senior Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 23,313
Likes: 25
From: Tucson Arizona
There are many excellent brands of headers and exhaust and you'll get as many different opinions.
I was not concerned about my remaining 1.5 year warranty (Hell I put an entirely different engine in). Suffice it to say I am very pleased with my LGM long tube headers and the Corsa Sport exhaust.
If maintaining you full warranty is a concern, check with your dealership prior to making any modifications and ask what effect the mods you want to do will have on your warranty. Also be advised long tube headers (and relocating/changing your cats) can potentially make for emission control testing problems in your State.
I was not concerned about my remaining 1.5 year warranty (Hell I put an entirely different engine in). Suffice it to say I am very pleased with my LGM long tube headers and the Corsa Sport exhaust.
If maintaining you full warranty is a concern, check with your dealership prior to making any modifications and ask what effect the mods you want to do will have on your warranty. Also be advised long tube headers (and relocating/changing your cats) can potentially make for emission control testing problems in your State.
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,560
Likes: 3
From: FNDA Beach Florida
get it
Depends on your budget. If doing Exhaust need to do it all meaning long tube headers (your choice as there are many and not that different), high flow cats, Xpipi, cat back mufflers, 160f thermostat, CAI and get the beast tuned/dyno'd at the same time. You will wonder who's car that is after that. If an Auto get the computer tuned there also, shifts points, how hard and all that. Of course you can plan on shelling out around $4000 for it all installed and done but that is the going price off the top of my head and what you will pay out there but worth it all the way. Imagine some heads and cam now!
Pro
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 587
Likes: 0
From: Lubbock Tx
I'm a fan of Corsa. I installed kooks headers, kooks high flow cats/mid-pipe, and the corsa sport exhaust system. It sounds really great. I have not had any problems with the computer issues you are concerned about. Now, of course, I did not install them myself. I had the dealership where I purchased my vette install everything for me. Yes, your exhaust warranty will be invalidated. But, like the technician told me, what are the chances of there being a problem? Well, it's just a chance you will have to take.
I am about to install a CAI system, but have not decided on the specific brand.
Have fun with your vette, and if you have any doubts, have it installed by a professional, like I did.
As far a cost issues, if you are more concerned about sound effects, just install the cat-back system. But, if you are after HP gains, then you need to start from the front end of the car, and work your way back (CAI, Headers, x-pipe, cat-back).
Keep in mind the issue of drone, which you will have to adapt to.
I am about to install a CAI system, but have not decided on the specific brand.
Have fun with your vette, and if you have any doubts, have it installed by a professional, like I did.
As far a cost issues, if you are more concerned about sound effects, just install the cat-back system. But, if you are after HP gains, then you need to start from the front end of the car, and work your way back (CAI, Headers, x-pipe, cat-back).
Keep in mind the issue of drone, which you will have to adapt to.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 2,034
Likes: 0
From: Beaverton OR
Folks,
I'm a newbie here. Althought I have scanned past threads on this subject, I still need some input from folks who have installed headers, hi-flow cats, and mufflers. I have an 05 6-speed vert and I'm considering upgrading the exhaust system. I'm trying to weigh the performance gains per the cost and hassle of dealing with the installation and possible computer glitches. Heres where I need input. For those of you who have installed headers, hi-flow cats, and new mufflers, was it worth the expense to you. In other words, would you do it again. What about warranty issues? What about CEL codes, any problems with getting codes resolved? Anyone do the installation themselves? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
I'm a newbie here. Althought I have scanned past threads on this subject, I still need some input from folks who have installed headers, hi-flow cats, and mufflers. I have an 05 6-speed vert and I'm considering upgrading the exhaust system. I'm trying to weigh the performance gains per the cost and hassle of dealing with the installation and possible computer glitches. Heres where I need input. For those of you who have installed headers, hi-flow cats, and new mufflers, was it worth the expense to you. In other words, would you do it again. What about warranty issues? What about CEL codes, any problems with getting codes resolved? Anyone do the installation themselves? Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.
Personally, I installed the Vararam CAI myself. (A sad story...
do a search) However, I let a pro install the headers and exhaust. (I opted for Corsa sports for the muffler) I also took it to a well respected tuner. ( I had ZERO computer problems after the headers were installed.)IMO, adding headers, hi-flo cats, (with or without x-pipe or new mufflers) coupled with a CAI and a tune by a pro who is familiar with LS2 engines will be the best money you'll ever spend.
The difference in performance now vs when it was stock is HUGE.
If you are interested in performance, I agree with TTU, "you have to start at the front and work backward."
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Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 26
Likes: 0
From: Benton Ar
Thanks again for the advice. I have access to a lift, so I'm considering doing the installation myself. I just need to decide on which headers and which exhaust. My other concern is I don't know of any "tuners" in Central Arkansas.
Safety Car
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Pro
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 587
Likes: 0
From: Lubbock Tx
I hear that you can remove the "computer" from your C6 and send it off to the "ZIP" company, and they can tune it up that way.