Exhaust System Dilemma --- HELP needed

[TheAce144]

Hi guys! For the past months I have been wondering how to setup my exhaust system for maximum performance at a reasonable price...I did the mistake to mess up my stock system to eventually convert it to a straight-pipe (with cat). I lost some low end torque but it is faster in the high rpms (power I barely use though).

I have quite a lot of options but I can't make my mind...

Current Mods : CAI, Overkill PCM, NGK Iridium IX Spark Plugs/Wires, Muffler Delete, Resonator Delete

1)SSAC Headers : I don't plan on adding some major mods so is it really worth it? I heard they were the best price/quality...

2)PLog/DP : Almost the price of the headers but not as efficient, less difficult to install

3)I will need mufflers...Should I go catless without resonator...I'm not sure what setup would sound the best...

[01gpgt01]

Headers. Stock exhaust is best IMO. But since you hacked it up Id go with ZZp https://www.zzperformance.com/grand_...=636&catid=110 Or if you just need mufflers just pick up a set of mufflers and have anywhere weld them on

[TheAce144]

Thanks for your opinion. However, if I choose this setup should I go catless and no resonator? Will I lose low-end torque and will the mufflers be able to tone down the sound a bit? (I want loud but not a fart can)

[01gpgt01]

Id put in a resonator. Cats illegal not to use. But its up to you if you use one. I dont. You dont want loud on a 3800. trust me. You will loose more low end when you do headers

I have stock exhaust with a cut out. Now thats loud. And it sounds like pure Chit

[TheAce144]

The thing I ate the most with my setup is the drone around 2500RPMs...Seems like the engine just stops working...I got good comments on the overall sound and the cut-off is just sick...but I'm growing up now...lol!

[blueguy]

http://www.grandprixforums.net/safel...car-17482.html

And let me say...Resonator and Muffler are a MUST...your car would honestly just sound a million times better right now with a 26" glasspack welded in. These cars...no matter WHAT the exhaust setup is...sound crappy...quiter the better.

If I were you...I'd get headers, stay catless, get a factory GM resonator or glasspack welded in...then get mufflers of your choice.

Resonator controls the buzz/rasp...and hence the name...the resonance of the sound of your car...especially in the interior.

Converter really controls the deepness of the exhaust...I'd messed with plenty of setups...Right now I am running Catless Pacesetter's, 26" Glasspack, Proflo Bullet Mufflers (which is basically a more muffled glasspack), 3" Custom piping, and 4" G8 Tips...it sounds awesome with my huge cam...just sayin

[TheAce144]

Thanks a lot for the info and for your time, I'll go to a shop where they make custom exhaust piping and ask for a quote...

So basically here it goes : Engine, then headers with 3" Exit, 3" Catless Downpipe, 26" Glasspack, 3" Custom Pipe (Y-Pipe) and Mufflers with tips...is that it?

[Bio248]

yeah, but 3" is more than overkill. if you stepped it down before the cat to 2.5" you'll save a good chunk of money and it won't be so loud when you're just cruising around.

[TheOtherNick]

Just try reading. Its free and will save you money.