Exhaust question..because there's never enough!

[BradG]

So I pulled the trigger on replacing the exhaust on the 3.slow and the LCE headers will be here today. I will be buying the 17.5" CAT to go along with it and the catback very shortly.
I couldn't help but notice that they also sell a TEST pipe that just so happens to be the same length as the CAT.

So my question is: Has anyone tested this and what was the outcome.

All in the name of science of course!:cheers:

 

[3rzrunner]

if I'm following you…. the test pipe makes the truck stink and dosent really do anything…

if this sounds wayyy off just ignore me/.

 

[BradG]

3rz..not sure if your way off or not, just thought I would throw the question out there. Yea, basically replacing the CAT with a straight pipe and see what happens.
As far as the stink goes..don't know.

 

[rbx]

Test pipe is to replace the CAT for "test". You could see a difference on the but dyno, but won't make a huge difference.
Not sure if I understand your issue.

 

[91'4bee]

If you have emissions laws in your area and you have to get tested dont get the test pipe. Unless you want to interchange the test pipe with the CAT every time you test. Other than that go ahead and get it for fun unless you care about the environment. It just makes the exhaust louder really. I have a high flow CAT but no muffler and I got doug thorley headers. Sound video of that is in my sig.

 

[nortonian]

I have headers on my '95 3vze and had the exhaust made custom with a magna flow muffler and 2-1/4 in pipe. The shop doing the exhaust suggested no catalytic converter and I agreed since it would be easy to add one later if I changed my mind. Also, they can't steal what I don't have.

I'm very happy with the performance and response. I'd prefer it to be quieter, but I can live with the sound. I do occasionally notice the smell when its idling in the driveway on a cold morning, but I'm old enough to remember when all cars smelled that way and it doesn't bother me. Its not that strong or noticeable anyway.

Instead of buying the cat back, just have a shop fabricate the exhaust. It might be cheaper.