Cat-back vs. Axle-back

[MustangerS550]

I've done some searches around this site, and quite a lot of people are saying that a cat-back alone will not result in any appreciable performance gains. If that is the case, then what is the incentive to buy a cat-back over the cheaper axle-backs? I'm interested in getting an aftermarket exhaust, and I like the FRPP Sport, Borla S-Type, and Roush Axleback. I plan to complement the exhaust with an air intake that doesn't require a tune, but I fear that i may just be blowing money while getting no performance out of it. Thoughts?

Sponsored

 

[OppoLock]

Catbacks don't require any pipe cutting on the S550 (bolts on via clamps and hangers; was the other way around with the S197 where axlebacks would bolt on instead) and would provide some weight savings by getting rid of the bulky crossover casing.

 

[Coaster]

1. Sound. An X or H pipe in place of the resonator changes the exhaust note quite a bit more than axle backs can.

2. Weight. The stock resonator weighs like 30Lbs.

3. Performance. Just kidding, you are not going to see any real gains out of a cat back, axle back, or intake without a tune.

 

[Farmundeh]

Catbacks don't require any pipe cutting on the S550 (bolts on via clamps and hangers; was the other way around with the S197 where axlebacks would bolt on instead) and would provide some weight savings by getting rid of the bulky crossover casing.

^ In a nutshell. An argument could also be made that most catbacks sound better/louder than their axleback counterparts due to removal of the suitcase.

 

[Todd15Fastback]

Catbacks provide little HP or TQ increases. Mostly 1-3 as dyno tested here on the forum.

My Roush AB saved me about 20lbs (I weighed all the parts). The catback would save another 10lbs due to the resonator being removed and replaced with piping.

The main reason to get a CB or AB is for the pure sound and nothing more. Besides some beneficial weight savings.

 

[benni302]

Check out MBRP...i went with the MBRP Race with a discount code i found online from Late Model Resto and it totalled out to about $530; that's not much more expensive than most of the axle-backs and was a breeze to install with no cutting required. I think there was another rep here on the forums as well offering MBRP setups for even less...and as everyone else has stated, the factory exhaust is a boat anchor!!

 

[Pony15]

Catback sound is just great, I had a Magnaflow axleback the sound was Ok, I got the MBRP catback after that, I could not be happier.... Magnaflow is for sale

 

[thehunterooo]

Sound and weight savings are the gains to be had with a catback or a axelback with x/h pipe. I just got the MRT h pipe and Roush axelbacks on yesterday and they are loud! The stock mufflers are very heavy though.

 

[Farmundeh]

Sound and weight savings are the gains to be had with a catback or a axelback with x/h pipe. I just got the MRT h pipe and Roush axelbacks on yesterday and they are loud! The stock mufflers are very heavy though.

Care to post some videos??:clap2:

 

[clevernickname]

but is like 30 pounds worth an extra 400$ or so?

 

[thehunterooo]

but is like 30 pounds worth an extra 400$ or so?

When it comes to performance per dollar a tune is a great starting point along with an intake compared to a cat back or other exhaust combo. I think the H/X pipe alone are a great addition. They add just a bit of sound, and you save 15 pounds for $200~ plus install. It is great for someone who is looking for just a little more sound without getting super loud. You are paying for sound if you want to think of it that way, but 30-40 pounds could be considered a lot on the track, etc.

I will get a video very soon hopefully. The exhaust hits it's peak when you are going through the gears at WOT. I can safely say the videos do not do any of these exhaust systems justice.

 

[thehunterooo]

[ame]

 

[RaceRedGT]

but is like 30 pounds worth an extra 400$ or so?

The resonator only weighs about 16 pounds.

 

[clevernickname]

When it comes to performance per dollar a tune is a great starting point along with an intake compared to a cat back or other exhaust combo. I think the H/X pipe alone are a great addition. They add just a bit of sound, and you save 15 pounds for $200~ plus install. It is great for someone who is looking for just a little more sound without getting super loud. You are paying for sound if you want to think of it that way, but 30-40 pounds could be considered a lot on the track, etc.

I will get a video very soon hopefully. The exhaust hits it's peak when you are going through the gears at WOT. I can safely say the videos do not do any of these exhaust systems justice.

Oh, the stock setup doesn't have an x or h pipe? It's just straight?

I'm completely new to this btw..so I will ask many stupid questions.

From what I understand...

catback: whole exhaust system except headers - deletes resonator as well?
axleback: only half an exhaust system, generally from rear axle area to muffler

what is this x/h pipe replacing? it's the place near the front axle right? so there will have to a lot of cutting/welding to put that in?

anyone have a link to how much sound increase? or ballpark a percentage of sound increase?

 

[Farmundeh]

I have a really big soft spot for this setup.

Sponsored