Complete high performance exhaust.

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Feb 9, 2007 | 03:53 PM

packedpluto

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Complete high performance exhaust.

I've got a 97 F150 Regular Cab Short Box 4x4 with a 4.6 Litre V8 with 200,000 Miles on it (320,000 Kilometers). My current exhaust is completely rusted out, cat's and all. I've been wanting to change the whole exhaust system for a while, and I was wondering what gives the best performance, and if you can actually physically notice the difference. I'd like to start with headers, to 2 (instead of the 4 oem) high flow cat's. Then get a complete high performance cat back exhaust system. I've tried a glass pack before, then I tried straight pipe after the cat's, but didn't notice much difference performance wise, and I think I lost mileage. I know I lost a ton of mileage from my 305x70R16 tires. I would like to be able to drive down the highway in overdrive if possible.
I'm looking for opinions from people have changed their complete exhaust, including headers and high flow cat's. Which brands give the best performance?
Thanks in advance for any info!

Feb 9, 2007 | 11:01 PM

packedpluto

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I also don't want to trip any sensors. With my glass pack and straight pipe, My check engine light would always be on.

Feb 9, 2007 | 11:16 PM

LxMan1

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As long as you run a pair of high flow cats, you should get no check engine light.
I would get a set of headers and a pair of high flow cats, thenlet an exhaust shop custom bend the rest of the system for you.

Feb 10, 2007 | 08:35 AM

packedpluto

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Are you saying to have the exhaust after the cat's custom bent just as straight pipe, or put in a good muffler as well?

Feb 10, 2007 | 01:40 PM

wrobo23

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From: WI, sometimes MN & IA

well, to be legal, put some sort of muffler on. if you dont care about emissions or p!ssin off your neighbors with almost straight pipes, leave it off. id say go headers (if you can afford), high flows, and a nice catback.

Feb 10, 2007 | 07:54 PM

LxMan1

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I would use a good muffler like a Flowmaster or Magnaflow.

Feb 11, 2007 | 08:40 AM

cneagle87

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I am looking to do the same thing on my f150. I already have the headers and i am looking for some high flow cats..any recommendations on some good high flow cats that are relatively affordable??

So you can use two cats instead of four and not trip a check engine light with the o2 sensors?