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by: JasonLancaster
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Truck owners love how powerful their vehicles are. Trucks need lots of power because they're designed to haul and tow heavy loads without difficulty. However, many truck manufacturers use fairly quiet exhaust systems on their vehicles, despite their powerful engines. If you want your truck to sound as powerful as you know it is, or if you're aiming to reduce the constrictions on the exhaust, then consider adding to or altering your truck's exhaust system.

Fortunately, the factory exhaust system is efficient and doesn't require much modification for you to improve it. The first component in your exhaust system is the exhaust manifold, the part that directs exhaust from individual cylinders into one or two main exhaust pipes. Most exhaust manifolds are pretty efficient and don't require replacement, but if you decide you'd like to replace this part, then you're going to look at a set of headers. A good set of headers will offer a ceramic coating, as well as factory mounting points for sensors. Again, most of the time the factory exhaust manifold is just fine.

The next components which the exhaust gases travel through are the catalytic converters. There's really no benefit to changing or modifying these, and taking them off is a bad idea. Today's modern catalytic converter is very efficient and legally required, so it makes sense to leave it alone. You would only consider replacing the factory catalytic if you were adding an extremely powerful engine upgrade, like a turbocharger or supercharger.

After the catalytic converters, the exhaust gases cool somewhat and enter the muffler. Again, the factory exhaust system is pretty good and the standard mufflers aren't very restrictive. Replacing them usually won't result in a significant hp or torque gain...3-5 hp and 5-10 ft-lbs of torque on average. However, after market mufflers will make your truck sound much better. The rumble you'll hear with after market mufflers is exciting, and well worth the cost. After leaving the mufflers, the exhaust will exit out of the tailpipe. Tailpipe tips are a popular add-on, but they're decorative only, and have no impact on your exhaust system's performance.

Obviously, the most logical thing to do if you want to make a change to your exhaust system is to exchange the factory muffler for an after market one. It'll produce the biggest, most noticeable results. Consider this when looking at after market mufflers:

First, ask yourself if you really want to be hearing the exhaust ALL the time. If you do, make sure to take that into account when selecting your muffler. If you'd prefer not to hear the muffler in the background as you're driving down the highway, choose a muffler that's not described as loud. You can look online or at your local muffler shop for more help on finding the perfect muffler. There are even sound clips on many muffler manufacturers' websites now so you can hear what your muffler will sound like before you buy.

Second, do you want your muffler to be just loud enough for passersby to hear, or do you want a loud that will make people stop and stare? If you're looking for that extra attention, you'll want a muffler with words like "racing" or "glasspack" in the description. Otherwise, these mufflers may be too loud for your tastes.

Also important to consider is whether the new muffler is a single or dual exhaust. If your factory exhaust system came with a single exhaust muffler, then your truck will work just as well with a single after market exhaust system. Dual exhaust systems are more expensive, but you'll get a nicer sound and better look. If you use a dual exhaust, check that your installer works around the trailer hitch and/or leaves room for one so you can add it later if you choose.

Finally, what exhaust system material is best? It's a decision that should be based on geography. If you live anywhere near the corrosive effects of saltwater, stainless steel is the smart choice. While it's more expensive up-front, it will last much longer than galvanized or aluminized steel in these climates. People living in dry climates really don't need to purchase stainless steel - if rust attacks their system, it will be years before anything is damaged.

About the Author

Author Jason Lancaster, an auto business veteran, created AccurateAutoAdvice.com. You'll find accurate car advice and tips for buying a car.

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