Monday, October 14, 2013
Exhaust Pipe Specs
Full exhaust systems are made of multiple components including the exhaust manifold, front pipe, catalytic converter, muffler and tailpipe. Exhaust gases travel through piping of varying size before released into the air. Exhaust pipe specifications determine flow, gas velocity and backpressure.
Exhaust Flow
Piping diameter directly relates to exhaust flow. If exhaust gasses are constricted by overly small piping, the engine will work harder to expel exhaust, which causes top-end power loss and poor gas mileage. Large piping allows ample flow, but can reduce pressure within the system, which slows exhaust velocity.
Exhaust Velocity
Power and fuel efficiency will also be lost if a lack of exhaust velocity is caused by overly large piping. Low velocity causes torque loss, which is why "Super Chevy Magazine" said piping specs a bit small are better than excessively large piping. Balance between flow and velocity must be met through piping specifications.
Piping Obstructions
Backpressure is caused when exhaust gasses return to the engines cylinder heads. A manageable amount of backpressure is OK, but too much backpressure causes engine power loss, overheating and a decrease in fuel efficiency. Obstructions or collapsed materials within exhaust piping create excessive backpressure.
