Why are axlebacks so expensive?

[Jayme]

Why is it so expensive? Because people pay it! That's why!

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[7six2]

Well it looks like I don't have to wait for Christmas. Beefcake stepped up and took quite a bit of the sting out. Should have some Roush axlebacks on the way soon . Thanks Beefcake!

 

[RMA]

As much as I like the Rousch/Steeda AB's I just could not piece my exhaust together for that much $$. I would just spend a few $$ more and go with something like SW brand at $900.

 

[Dntalman]

It cost so much because...... They can... Supply and demand.....

 

[5ABI VT]

And because its a new model. If you have 30-40k for a new stang.. youre ready to drop $$$ for an exhaust. simple as that !

 

[blakbearddelite]

It so expensive because it is now a mid-pipe and axle back. Back on my '01, the cat-back did not include the mid-pipe. The Magnaflow cat-back I bought for my '15 was almost $1k (I bought used).

So if you compare it to what they used to be, you have to add in the cost of doing a mid-pipe and an axle-back.

 

[Cascadia_302]

Keep in mind some of those expensive specialized tools can be rented for free too!

No doubt, from spring compressors to engine hoists and nearly everything in between.

 

[Shawn@RIP TUNING]

R&D and manufacturing process can get expensive, specially if you are the little guy in the industry.

 

[marylandspeed]

Three reasons...

• A lot of manufacturers are going to 304 stainless, which costs more than 409. Pretty much every "cheap" system someone is mentioning here is 409.
• Drone is becoming more a important purchasing factor for people. Where manufacturers used to hang the same generic mufflers on each system, they are now designing unique mufflers for every application.
• Lastly, there has been a big prevalence of manufacturers having minimum advertised price polices. These jack the price consumers pay up because it is a price the manufacturer sets rather than letting the market determine it. It also creates the whole "call us for best price" scenario.

That being said, I always encourage people to give us a call for best pricing before you buy. Many times, we have the best pricing out there and can beat others by hundreds! Our number is 443-730-9428!

 

[Cascadia_302]

I have been through enough drone in my younger years so paying more for a "drone free" system is not a deal killer for me anymore.

 

[dgc333]

It so expensive because it is now a mid-pipe and axle back. Back on my '01, the cat-back did not include the mid-pipe. The Magnaflow cat-back I bought for my '15 was almost $1k (I bought used).

So if you compare it to what they used to be, you have to add in the cost of doing a mid-pipe and an axle-back.

That still does not justify the price. I purchased a complete header back exhaust for my 68 Barrcuda a couple of years ago. It included the mid pipes with an X cross over, two mufflers, two tailpipes, hangers and clamps. Granted it was aluminized steel but the complete price from Summit Racing was $250. If you assume double the cost for 409 stainless (which it wouldn't be with the labor being the same regardless of matetial) that would be $500.

As I stated before I assembled an axle back system from Magna Flow parts for $130.

The only reason to pay a premium for 304 is if you are building a show car that you want the polished look. Granted 304 will last longer put I keep cars 7-10 years and have never had a 409 system rust out (you OEM exhaust is 409).

 

[SK GT]

Heh if you think axlebacks are expensive look at some of the catback systems.

Do I personally feel they are overpriced for what you really are getting? Yes

With that said, it won't stop me from buying a ARH catback soon.

 

[racecarmike]

From what i've seen with the systems we produce in house...

Its all cumulative costs

*As was mentioned before but better grade of materials contributes to the cost, some use 304 SS, some use 409 SS, some use coated mild steel.
*There actually is a lot of R&D that goes into them. Fitment, tone, NVH testing, weld stress testing, etc...

*Tooling is another factor be it the jigs, benders, robotic welders, presses. That allows for a high quality product that can be produced in volume.

*Add in a lot of the companies are US based. therefore you paying for skilled/unskilled labor consistent with US cost of living.

*General business costs for operations, marketing, sales.

*shipping these are big boxes and shipping wants their cut too.

*Profits for all. The manufacture has to make a profit and well as there vendors.

You can get much cheaper system with some off the shelf cans/tips and have your local Mullet Mike weld it all up for a lot cheaper. Its all in your preference. If $1500 for a cat back is ridiculous to you then there is a market below that. If that is still too much there is yet another market below that. Eventually you'll get to the pipe delete/cherry bomb level.

There's nothing wrong with leaving it stock either.
(did i just say leave it stock was an option? :doh: )

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