What you need to know about the new Tundra's exhaust.
by Jason Lancaster.
Toyota's new Tundra is powerful. It is a capable hauler and tower, and it's as fast as many sports cars. But does your new Tundra's exhaust need modification? For instance, do you want to hear that V8 rumble or are you trying to get more power?
The new Tundra's factory exhaust system is pretty darn good. It features a unique 4-2-1 exhaust manifold, or four exhaust tubes (one from each cylinder) into a "y" junction, and then into one pipe. This manifold is made from stainless steel, so it's lighter than average and also corrosion resistant. Each of the exhaust tubes are also of equal lengths. All these features make the factory manifolds equivalent to expensive aftermarket headers. Changing them won't get you more power and is uncessary.
Next we have the catalytic converters. These legally required emissions control devices are often accused of restricting a vehicle's exhaust, but in the new Tundra that's not the case. They are efficient and they benefit the environment, so they're definitely off limits.
Once the exhaust gases leave the catalytic converters they cool off and enter the muffler. The factory muffler is efficient, but I don't think it let's the voice of the motor come out. The factory muffler was chosen to be efficient and quite, and changing it won't increase the power of the engine much, if at all. However, it will give you the V8 rumble that everyone loves. Fortunately, there are a lot of available aftermarket mufflers available. Choosing one only requires answering a few questions.
Most people want to hear the exhaust rumble at idle and under acceleration, but not really while cruising on the highway. If you get the wrong muffler, you'll end up hearing an annoying drone at highway speeds. The experts at the local muffler shop can help you choose the right muffer, as well as the websites www.tundraheadquarters.com and www.tundrasolutions.com.
Another noise concern is loudness. Do you want to have a truck that's only slightly louder than factory, something agressive, or something very loud that the whole neighborhood will hear? If you're looking for the last option, make sure to look for the words "racing" or "glasspack" in the muffler's description. If you aren't wanting something LOUD, then avoid muffler descriptions using those terms.
Another important choice when considering a new muffler is single or dual exhaust. Remember, the factory system is pretty good. The single exhaust that the truck is setup with will work just fine and give good performance, but you might want to go with a dual exhaust to get the better look and sound. That's my suggestion, just make sure that your installer works around your trailer hitch or leaves room for one in case you want it added on later.
Finally, what material is best? We think that's a decision that should be based on geography. If you live anywhere near the corrosive effects of saltwater, stainless steel is the smart choice. While it's more expensive up-front, it will last much longer than galvanized or aluminized steel. People living in dry climates really don't need to purchase stainless steel ? if rust attacks their system, it will be years before anything is damaged.
About the author: Jason Lancaster has worked in the car industry and with the Toyota Tundra for the better part of a decade. Get more Tundra Info at his website, www.tundraheadquarters.com. Click here to get your own unique version of this article.
|
