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NPP Exhaust Actuators

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Old Oct 4, 2025 | 04:56 AM
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Default NPP Exhaust Actuators

Exhaust question for you guys. I’m planning to swap an NPP exhaust onto my non-NPP base coupe, I like the sound of the NPP with the valves open and they’re a lot cheaper than aftermarket exhaust options. Most being sold used don’t include the exhaust tip valve actuators, and the non NPP exhaust doesn’t have them. Do I need the actuators in place to prevent exhaust gases from exiting the side of the exhaust tip where the actuators would normally go? I don’t care about being able to close the valves, I just want to know if I need to find a way to cover the hole where the actuators would be installed. Thanks!
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Old Oct 4, 2025 | 10:39 AM
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No you don't need actuators. I did exactly what you want to do. Here is a shot of mine w/ the actuators in place.

Here is a closeup of the pipe w/o the actuator. Sorry about the size. This forum doesn't allow me to resize like others do. I have been running w/0 the actuator for 4-5 years.

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Old Oct 4, 2025 | 05:17 PM
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Originally Posted by CraigStu
No you don't need actuators. I did exactly what you want to do. Here is a shot of mine w/ the actuators in place.

Here is a closeup of the pipe w/o the actuator. Sorry about the size. This forum doesn't allow me to resize like others do. I have been running w/0 the actuator for 4-5 years.
Can you post a sound clip of what yours sounds like, I have thinking about doing this but was unsure how the quality of the exhaust note would be. Any drone at highway speeds?
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Old Oct 5, 2025 | 02:53 AM
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Originally Posted by CraigStu
No you don't need actuators. I did exactly what you want to do. Here is a shot of mine w/ the actuators in place.

Here is a closeup of the pipe w/o the actuator. Sorry about the size. This forum doesn't allow me to resize like others do. I have been running w/0 the actuator for 4-5 years.
Okay great, that definitely simplifies things. Thanks!
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Old Oct 5, 2025 | 06:36 PM
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If you purchase NPP mufflers from a GS or Z06, you will need to modify the portion of the exhaust ahead of the axle to maintain your AFM valves. Removal of those valves or not having the actuators installed will set OBD codes. If you purchase a Z51 NPP exhaust the AFM valves will be part of the exhaust ahead of the axle.

Bill
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Old Oct 6, 2025 | 04:59 AM
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Originally Posted by Bill Dearborn
If you purchase NPP mufflers from a GS or Z06, you will need to modify the portion of the exhaust ahead of the axle to maintain your AFM valves. Removal of those valves or not having the actuators installed will set OBD codes. If you purchase a Z51 NPP exhaust the AFM valves will be part of the exhaust ahead of the axle.

Bill
Gotcha, I’m planning on paring a Z06 exhaust with the AWE AFM Simulators, I think that combo should work to prevent any codes.
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Old Oct 6, 2025 | 09:26 AM
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Mine being a 7M, I didn't worry about AFM running. So I kept searching ebay etc until I found NPP mufflers that also had AFM valves. I wasn't aware of the model details that Bill has laid out so i just looked at the pictures. Thx for the extra info Bill.
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Old Oct 9, 2025 | 02:23 PM
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Install is complete. I’m very pleased with the results, especially with how cheap and easy the upgrade was. Are the Z06 NPP mufflers different than the regular NPP mufflers? They seem to sound even better than the Z51 NPP vette I took a ride in.
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