What are exhaust manifolds?
Exhaust system

What are exhaust manifolds?

Working in the aftermarket, a custom exhaust system is one of the best things you can do for your vehicle. (And trust us, at Performance Muffler, we've been Phoenix's top exhaust shop for 15 years, so we certainly know our exhaust systems.) The most eye-catching and popular upgrades include Cat-Back exhausts and muffler removal. But one simple upgrade you've probably forgotten about is the exhaust manifolds. 

Exhaust manifolds increase horsepower by reducing exhaust restrictions and supporting scavenging. Most headers are aftermarket upgrades, but some high performance vehicles come with headers. You'll notice them on race cars and hot rods, and with a quick addition, an exhaust manifold can be on your ride too. 

Understanding exhaust manifolds

We briefly mentioned what the purpose of exhaust manifolds is, but let's dive into their dual purpose. 

Reduced exhaust restrictions

Simply put, exhaust manifolds increase horsepower because they are larger pipes. Larger diameter pipes transfer gases from the engine through the exhaust pipe under the car and out more quickly. Rapid venting reduces pressure build-up in the entire exhaust system and allows the vehicle to function normally. The increase in the size of the exhaust pipe plays an important role for the entire car. 

Cleaning support

Some drivers understand what purge is, but we assume that most drivers do not. Purge is the replacement of exhaust gases in an engine cylinder with fresh air and fuel. The pistons rotate, producing power similar to an air pump. This process causes multiple explosions of air and fuel, which are dispersed as a fine mist. Exhaust manifolds speed up the emission of exhaust gases by the car, increasing power.

How is an exhaust manifold different from an exhaust manifold?

Some drivers may wonder how exhaust manifolds are different from a manifold because the exhaust manifold directs the gases from the cylinders to the catalytic converter. It is true that they serve the same purpose, but they are two different components. 

The exhaust manifolds come direct from the factory and are not an aftermarket upgrade. They are made of thick cast iron, a durable and inexpensive material. Manifolds have short intake ports that distribute air to the engine's cylinders. 

On the other hand, the collectors are made of thin-walled stainless steel pipes and their pipes are of the same length. They are larger in order to speed up the flow of exhaust gases. In addition, manifolds create less back pressure than manifolds. 

Exhaust manifold types

To learn a little more about exhaust manifolds, let's break down the main types that exist:

  • Long Tube Manifolds: Suitable for low to medium torque applications, these manifolds have four tubes that connect into one manifold. 
  • Short manifolds: These manifolds are less noisy than long tube manifolds. They are suitable for the upper rev range and merge into one exhaust at a shorter distance. 
  • Lakester Manifolds: Consisting of short primary tubes, these manifolds are popular in older hot rods. 
  • Tri-Y Manifolds: As you would expect, these manifolds are shaped like a "Y" for air removal. They generate the highest power than any other design.  

Exhaust Manifold Benefits

You may still be wondering if an exhaust manifold is worth it. In addition to the increased power, you will also notice the following exhaust manifold benefits:

  • Better Exhaust Flow Rate
  • Improving the sound of your car
  • Eliminate back pressure in your exhaust system
    • First of all, we are talking only about the exhaust manifold. 

Contact Performance Muffler to upgrade your vehicle with exhaust manifolds

If you want to increase the power of your car with a simple addition, then exhaust manifolds are the solution for you. Contact Performance Muffler for a free quote to improve your exhaust system. We also specialize in general repair and replacement of exhaust, catalytic converters and feedback systems. 

About performance silencer 

Performance Muffler is your best car shop for a custom exhaust system. We have locations in Phoenix, New York and Glendale and have been in the vehicle conversion business since 2007. We understand that your vehicle is more than just a vehicle; that's why we are a garage for people who "understand it". 

Visit our website to learn more about how we stand out with our passionate service. Or read our blog for other automotive ideas and tips. 

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