Do exhaust pipe sizes affect performance?

Many things end up in your car's exhaust system. There are several components in an exhaust system, from the manifold to the catalytic converter or pipe fittings to the muffler. And that's just your car after it leaves the factory. With countless aftermarket changes and upgrades, even more exhaust complications are possible. 

However, perhaps the most important component of an exhaust and its performance is the size of the tailpipe. It is true that there are several ways to modify and improve the performance of your car, such as exhaust manifolds or high flow catalytic converters. But exhaust pipes may have the highest correlation with vehicle performance. However, larger pipe size does not automatically mean better performance. We cover this and more in this blog. 

Assignment of exhaust pipes by the vehicle manufacturer 

Most gear lovers know that vehicle manufacturers design the exhaust system of their vehicles primarily to reduce noise. With the right gasket, diameters, and mufflers, your finished car is not designed for optimal performance. That's where aftermarket upgrades (and a performance muffler) come into play. 

Exhaust pipes and performance

Exhaust pipes carry exhaust gases away from the engine and safely out of the vehicle. At the same time, exhaust pipes also play a role in engine performance and fuel consumption. Of course, the size of the exhaust pipes contributes to all three goals. 

The size of the exhaust pipes correlates with the flow rate. How quickly and easily the gases can exit the vehicle is critical. Thus, a higher flow rate is better for the vehicle. Larger tailpipe size reduces exhaust restrictions. Due to the larger size and less restrictions, gases exit quickly and reduce pressure build-up. A larger exhaust system, including improved exhaust manifolds, can increase scavenging: replacing exhaust gases in an engine cylinder with fresh air and fuel. 

Which exhaust pipe size is right for you? 

However, there is a limit to the idea that "the bigger the exhaust pipe, the better." The reason for this is that you still need some back pressure for the speed of the exhaust leaving the combustion chamber. Typically, a factory built exhaust system has too much back pressure, and sometimes a mistaken aftermarket upgrade creates too little back pressure. As with most things in life, your exhaust pipe size has a sweet spot. You want something bigger than your new car, but not too big. This is where talking to an exhaust specialist comes in handy. 

Want better performance? Think Cat-Back Exhaust

The most common aftermarket exhaust system upgrade is the closed loop exhaust system. This change enlarges the larger diameter exhaust pipe and adds a more efficient middle pipe, muffler and tailpipe. It includes the exhaust system components behind the catalytic converter (where it is named: cat back). Car enthusiasts appreciate the cat-back exhaust system as it upgrades everything needed for more power accordingly. 

Other exhaust modifications

In addition to focusing on exhaust pipe size, you may want to consider other upgrades:

• Full custom exhaust. For any gearbox, the thought of completely personalizing and modifying your vehicle is exciting. Click the link to learn about all the benefits of a custom exhaust system. 
• Upgrading your catalytic converter. The catalytic converter is critical for converting harmful gases into safer ones that can be emitted within acceptable limits. 
• Remove muffler. Did you know that you don't need a silencer? It only reduces the sound, and this extra addition may slightly reduce the overall functionality of your car. 

Let the Performance muffler transform your car

Do you want to increase the size of the exhaust pipe? (But make sure you find the right size for your vehicle.) Or do you need an exhaust system repair or replacement? Performance Muffler can help you with all of this and more. Contact us today for a free quote. 

You'll soon find out how we stand out as the best exhaust system shop in the Phoenix area for 15 years.