Is there a power benefit to going with a Dual Cat-back system as opposed to a single? Or is it just for sound and looks that most people seem to go dual? Thanks.

1995 F-150 4x4 SC SB 5.0L

 

You get the same flow with two tailpipes from a single muffler as you do from a single tailpipe from the single muffler.

Mostly, it's the sound quality. I know that they might sound the same, but also it is the pleasing aspect of seeing two chrome tips sticking out from under the back bumper, and knowing the chxxx driver behind you is tasting your exhaust!

The last part is my favorite.

1988 F-150, SWB, 5.0 EFI (formerly 4.9 EFI), M5OD 5 speed, 3.08 gears, Summit shorty truck headers, Custom built Flowmaster exhaust system. Force 4 LP6000 lightbar, Federal signal PA-300 100 watt siren, Icom IC-V100 50 watt mobile radio.
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1965 F-100 (just purchased 1/18/01), SWB, 390, C-6 auto. Dual exhaust, Not much else to do to it.

Can see both below.

[link:www.geocities.com/hotrodford_88/|Hotrodford_88's Webpage]

 

There really is no difference as hotrodford_88 mentioned. Because of the convertor, it allows the same fumes. In most cases you can get a 3" single exhuast cheaper than duals. Now in true dual versions, they are better. But since that is illegal on our trucks, it's invalid.

 

Thanks, I think I'll go with the single if I'm going to get the same benefit.

Another question I had along the same line, was wether or not a 3 inch exhaust was the way to go? I've read in other posts here about 'not enough back-pressure' with too wide of a pipe. Will 3'' be OK, or should I go with 2.5''?

1995 F-15 4x4 SC SB 5.0L

 

On the subject of bigger pipe, typically 3 inch is used for high output exhaust. Stick with something in the 2 1/4 range or maybe 2.5 Either way you go you get the same flow. But if you go to large, you will lose your backpressure and start affecting your power.


1988 F-150, SWB, 5.0 EFI (formerly 4.9 EFI), M5OD 5 speed, 3.08 gears, Summit shorty truck headers, Custom built Flowmaster exhaust system. Force 4 LP6000 lightbar, Federal signal PA-300 100 watt siren, Icom IC-V100 50 watt mobile radio.
=======================================
1965 F-100 (just purchased 1/18/01), SWB, 390, C-6 auto. Dual exhaust, Not much else to do to it.

Can see both below.

[link:www.geocities.com/hotrodford_88/|Hotrodford_88's Webpage]

 

I had the same concerns with my system, going to full 3" piping would have killed my truck, so after the converter I used the stock 2.5", but after the muffler for the open exhaust sound I wanted, I used 3" for the turn down, nice low bass exhaust that really growls when you accelerate, I just personally dont like the "BARK" when its reved, but others think its cool.

1995 F-150XL SC/SB
http://members.sounddomain.com/blind
5-Star Rated F-150 (Big Stereo)

 

Thanks for the info. So I guess having 3'' after the muffler won't do me any harm?

Did you guys notice a real power difference when you got rid of the stock exhaust?

I'm putting a K&N FIPK on this weekend, but from what I've read here, I probably won't notice much until I put the cat-back exhaust on.

 

I noticed a difference right away climbing the hills around where I live, didn't have to downshift to go up them, just powered up without losing speed. But then I bought larger tires and all power increase dissapeared and I am able to do 70mph in 3rd gear on my 5-speed at 3400 RPM...stupid economy gears!

1995 F-150XL SC/SB
http://members.sounddomain.com/blind
5-Star Rated F-150 (Big Stereo)

 

From what I've been reading ... am I right to assume that I would get the same power benefit from just bolting on a new high-flow muffler (eg: Flowmaster etc), that I would from bolting on an entire cat-back system (as long as my stock pipes are still in good shape)?

 

I lost some low-end torque. But gained some horsepower, and mileage and looks.