exhaust help for a newbie...

runnahmike

New member
Im thinking about upgrading my stock exhaust.

Ive heard good things about magnaflow, and borla. Im not really looking for anything to loud as I really like it when my 3 month old falls asleep in the back! Just looking for a stainless system that will give it a nice look and sound.
Thanks for helping this newbie out.
I just stumbled upon this site the other day and ordered my t4r.org sticker yesterday.
 
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You didn't say what generation or year 4Rnr. The new (at least '03 up) have a stainless steel system already so just add a Valor outlet. I just swapped out my OEM one for a dual Borla. It is quite a bit louder at 1500-2000 RPMs and when you really get on it. It bothers my wife (without mentioning the cost!) - so might a 3 year old too. Has nice dual outlets on either side and was a quick easy install.
 
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I am also considering an exhaust upgrade and am up in the air as to which to purchase. The more I read the more I think I may go with the Gibson as a quiet exhaust that provides some performance improvement.

Any comments or feedback on that to help me and the newbie?
 
I bought "my" BORLA used from a local poster to this FORUM so was a great deal compared to buying new plus shipping. Original owner hadn't even sent in the 1M mile warranty form so I'm good to go. I was amazed at how easy it was to install and the quality of the construction and parts. Everything lined up perfectly with the hangers on the body and added SS hangers were provided with SS bolts that went into existing threaded holes in the chassis for the outlets on either side. All joints slide together precisely and the SS band clamps completed the connections. I didn't plan ahead by dousing the 2 rear connectors under the rear axel with PB Blaster - so ended up grinding them off with an air grinder - and still installation (in the driveway) took under 1 hour with no jacking required (only had to remove spare tire).

Definately louder though -- It sounds like it has more power but who know (think Borla claims 12.3 HP or there abouts). Seems the computerized MPH has gone down though - says 16.8 now when it was reading about 17.4 in local driving. Hoping that goes up as ECU learns over again. I added a used K&N filter charger at same time (I can't hear difference with it).

Ha, I put a lifetime warrantied BOSAL ($120 made in Brazil) exhaust on my '90 4 Runner years ago. My daughter still drives it --- it on its 4th exchange! Costs me $7 each time for new gasket and new rear hanger strap! When it starts to sound sporty - I pull it off and get a replacement (Olympic Auto Parts).
 
If you don't want any more noise than I wouldn't do it. I just put a Gibson stainless system on yesterday and it does increase the noise volume of the exhaust.
 
I just put a Gibson stainless system on yesterday and it does increase the noise volume of the exhaust.

How much is the increase in volume? Is it that noticeable in the cabin over the stock exhaust?
 
The borla is a great, great system, and one of the most expensive. If money is no object, this is the one.

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/zoomprod.php?id=4run_borla_03_04

4run_borla_03_up.jpg


Also, the Gibson is very good too, and for the price, can't be beat.

http://www.burtmanindustries.com/zoomprod.php?id=4run_gib_exhst_03u

4run_gibson_03_up.jpg
 
Nother alternative is to cut out your old muffler and change only the muffler. I did that on mine. I put on a magnaflow, not too loud, but loud enough. Not too much drone, but loud at 2k rpm. If you want something not too loud look into ones that are straight through design and NOT chambered.
 
jtateny said:
Is it that noticeable in the cabin over the stock exhaust?
yes. You hear the rumble. Not much you can do about that. Ask yourself this...can you hear a car with a loud exhaust as it passes you in your car? If you can hear their exhaust then you will definitely hear yours if you change it to something louder. Just the nature of the beast. Noise carries especially low sounds like bass.
 
That is some interesting feedback. There have been several others on this forum who swear the Gibson is almost silent from the cabin and very quiet until and unless you stomp on it. I think even Jason B, who sells and installs the Gibson systems as well as the Borlas, has commented on how quiet they are.

Anyone else running the Gibson system out there care to weigh in and give their two cents on this.....? :confused:
 
You have to remember the drone from your exhaust is coming in straight from under you. I dont know much about the Gibson but some people love it and some ppl say its a bit too tame. Whatever youre looking for. If you go to a muffler shop they can let you test them (well, mine did at least). I only changed the muffler so they cut my muffler and kinda placed it on my pipe and let me hear the differences. If youre gonna get a catback obviously this isnt feasible. I would say go meet up with other ppl on the board and hear theirs. I mean, youre going to be driving this car for a few years (i think) and you want something that youll like hearing. My 2 cents
 
Actually, that is even a better idea than getting written feedback! Anyone with a 4th gen V8 t4r have a Gibson cat back exhaust installed and live near the Syracuse, NY area?

If not then written feedback would still be appreciated...
 
jtateny said:
Actually, that is even a better idea than getting written feedback! Anyone with a 4th gen V8 t4r have a Gibson cat back exhaust installed and live near the Syracuse, NY area?

If not then written feedback would still be appreciated...

Search for threads about the Gibson or other mufflers, look at their profiles and PM ppl who live in your area.
 

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