Does the Cat back systems offer anything over just using the same flowmaster or magnaflow muffler on stock piping?? Basically what do I get for the extra couple hundred bucks?

 

Fillbilly, the term "cat-back" just means any muffler you install downstream of your catalytic converters. Means not messing with the cats.

Most any aftermarket muffler will give you better sound, Magnaflows seem to be preferred amongst the members here, tho Flows have their fans. Borla, Roush, Gibson, Banks.. and more.. many choices out there.

I went with Borla myself, sounds great and increased my highway mpg by 1.8.

My system came with all the piping to run from rear of the cats to the tip. Generally the point of installing a cat-back is to increase, or ease, the flow of the exhuast. What you want is a "straight-through" exhuast as opposed to a baffled exhaust, such as the stock muffler. And some aftermarket systems as well.

Hope any of that was of help!

 

Cat-back systems refer to plumbing as well as the muffler from the cat back. Most cat-back systems use increased diameter tubing along with an increased flow muffler. That said, most cat-back systems help with high end, or peak hp but can hinder low-end performance. The maggie systems seem to perform best on the new 5.4 3valves, they have done more R&D for these trucks than most exhaust companies.

 

So is the only differance possible the larger diameter tubing? That doesnt seem worth the extra thee hundred bucks! If I just replace the muffler will I get the same effect for the most part?

 

Magnaflow has done alot of R&D, and it's not just tubing size, it's how many bends and types of bends and location of bends as well, along with material used.

 

Don't waste your money on a Magnaflow catback. They use cheap 409 grade stainless which will be covered in surface rust in less than a year. If you are going to buy a cat back, then get one that is completely T-304 Stainless (Borla, Roush) as these will hold up and look much better over time.

Otherwise, save yourself the $$$ and just get the muffler (we are only talking about a difference of maybe 1-2 hp and Ft. lbs.).

I personally went with the Roush catback as I wanted a complete T-304 stainless system and dual rear exit tips.