Exhaust options

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Treefork

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Hey all, new to forum, been lurking a while. So, I'm researching exhausts, and don't want to limit my options, and I'm still learning. So, what are some exhaust systems to look at?

I've been comparing Magnaflow and Flowmaster, but if there are other types I should consider, throw them out there.

My truck is stock, 1999 Tahoe LT 4 door, 4WD. 153k miles.

I'm looking for something that sounds good, moderate volume.

Feel free to respond like I know nothing about anything, because I mostly don't. :)
 

east302

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A lot of people post exhaust videos on YouTube, that may give you a better idea of the sound.

My 2-door has a single exit dynomax on it. It's not obnoxious, but the drone in the cabin can get a little old sometimes.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
 

TigerEyz3

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Hey all, new to forum, been lurking a while. So, I'm researching exhausts, and don't want to limit my options, and I'm still learning. So, what are some exhaust systems to look at?

I've been comparing Magnaflow and Flowmaster, but if there are other types I should consider, throw them out there.

My truck is stock, 1999 Tahoe LT 4 door, 4WD. 153k miles.

I'm looking for something that sounds good, moderate volume.

Feel free to respond like I know nothing about anything, because I mostly don't. :)
First, welcome to the forum!!!

There are lots of exhaust options available...research is the cheapest way to get what you need/want without experiencing undue monetary outlay.
1. you can select the desired muffler and have your local exhaust shop weld in the piping and tip(s)
2. or you can select a bolt-on exhaust kit that you can install in your driveway

With either option, consider your pipe diameter as well as whether the bends are crimped or mandrel-bent....bigger piping typically equals deeper sound. Muffler selection and pipe length will play a part in volume - longer the muffler, the quieter it will be (also usually less cabin drone).

On a personal level, you mentioned two very reputable brands. I've had both. As previously stated, listen to videos of what you're considering. Sound is subjective - video will give you an idea, but won't be true to life. Also, consider your entire exhaust system (headers, converters, single / dual outlet, exit location, tips) as they each play a part in the tone/volume.

Prior to the current setup, I had a 2.25" DI/DO Flowmaster muffler (this was using the exhaust shop welding option).
Now, I've got a Magnaflow mandrel bent catback (2.5" DI / 3.5" SO) on my Tahoe... been very happy with it. It outflows the previous setup and has a mellower rumble (not as loud, but a bit deeper). No cabin drone either.

Happy hunting!!!
 

08HoeCD

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Hey all, new to forum, been lurking a while. So, I'm researching exhausts, and don't want to limit my options, and I'm still learning. So, what are some exhaust systems to look at?

I've been comparing Magnaflow and Flowmaster, but if there are other types I should consider, throw them out there.

My truck is stock, 1999 Tahoe LT 4 door, 4WD. 153k miles.

I'm looking for something that sounds good, moderate volume.

Feel free to respond like I know nothing about anything, because I mostly don't. :)

Consider a muffler swap using Magnaflow 12589 (mild but noticeable) or 12259 (deeper and slightly louder).
 

TigerEyz3

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Consider a muffler swap using Magnaflow 12589 (mild but noticeable) or 12259 (deeper and slightly louder).

Those muffler suggestions would only work if he wanted a dual outlet setup or ran a y-pipe after the mufflers. The one I have is a full kit (#15701) expressly made for our model trucks - currently on back order.
 

ThatLifeGuard97

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I have a flowmaster 40 series delta flow fitted in with a Y-pipe to a 4" tip. The sound is fairly aggressive outside but inside the cabin it is only noticable if you have a slightly heavy foot around tow. Highway speeds there is absoluttely no drone at all. I think it is nearly the perfect setup for me.tahoe muffler.jpg
 

ge0rgin0

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20180217_100808_Richtone(HDR).jpg I too need to get some research going, 1 question though. My 96 Tahoe has stock suspension & tires, eventually im gonna get some 33s or 35s maybe a 6" lift, will LongTube headers be an issue? And what are some good ones out there?

I got a small exhuast leak on the Driver Side so might as well drop in new gaskets & Headers along with new muffler and delete the cat(s)
TIA
 

TigerEyz3

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If you're going with 33s or 35s, you're gonna need to regear (front and rear), too. That said, shorty vs LT choice will depend on the typical RPM range you plan to see. The ease of install will depend on HOW you plan to lift.
  • A suspension lift won't make much difference compared to factory. Eveything related to the exhaust moves in the same way.
  • A body lift will make some differences (not saying good or bad, just differences) as angles/clearance will change between body and frame.
I don't know if they make them anymore, but the tri-y design was/is a great option for our trucks due to the RPM band and functional factor associated with our vehicles (daily driving, towing, hauling). The tri-y design works well off-idle and really shines when RPMs get in the 2400+ range (you can actually hear them kick in). Doug Thorley was the one that made them. However, there's a history lesson regarding current renaming (Doug's Headers).

I personally wouldn't recommend deleting the cats. Computer is tuned with them in mind and if they are in good shape, they don't detract from the vehicle performance at all... If your cats are in poor condition, I'd personally recommend replacing them with MagnaFlow cats.
 

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