Question about X-pipes

[white07gt-cs]

I have read numerous threads on this site regarding exhaust systems for the S-197 Mustang. The more I read the more confused I get, . If I understand correctly, there is very very little performance gain by installing an aftermarket system on a stock engine and the change would be pretty much for sound quality/tone unless you are super/turbocharged.

I'm looking to make the exhaust a bit more free flowing and I'd like to have a little more bark from the pipes when the loud petal is mashed; but only then and definately not when cruising i.e. no drone. For the above reasons I'm leaning heavily toward the FRPP GTA axle-backs based on the posts I have read. The pricing is competitive and I think the sound is what I'm looking for.

My question is regarding installing an X-pipe with these mufflers. Several of the manufacturers say that the X-pipe flows and scavenges more efficiently than the H-pipe which is a good thing especially if I do go FI in the future. What will an X-pipe do to the sound? I'm looking at the FRPP or Pypes X-pipes. Any advice would be greatly appreciated as I really don't want to do the change several times to get the right setup. Thanks.

P.S. This is going on an 07 GT with the only mods being a C&L CAI.

 

[CRoberts91]

X-pipes will give you more of a raspy sound, and generally don't go with chambered mufflers. Loudmouths and/or Race mufflers are usually combined with x-pipes to get an extremely loud sound. With a chambered muffler most people go with an h-pipe. I personally have SLP Loudmouths with an O/R Prochamber. A Prochamber is like a big h-pipe, its a chamber with two inlets and outlets. I think it scavenges great. SLPs gave me a little more pull in the top-end but lost some torque down low, but when I installed the Prochamber I regained some low-end torque and gained more top end power too. It sounds great on my GT and has very little drone. I hope this has helped you, good luck.

 

[anticubicle]

Chambered mufflers + H-Pipe FTW.

Check out my sound clips. Very little drone and isn't too loud until you really get on it.

 

[LV51FER]

Just think of each bank of your engine being a pump for the other bank thereby not only exhausting it's own gases but helping suck gases out of the opposite bank. An H pipe is at 90 degrees and provides the burble as the gases pass the H-pipe bridge orifice whereas the X pipe physically crosses the opposite stream. As has been said, a little less conversation, a little more action, a little less burble, a little more higher pitched noise although the difference is fairly negligible to the untrained ear...or anybody...

 

[stang8urimport]

My old black GT with a Pypes off road x pipe and Magnaflow full bodied mufflers (same setup on my Grabber GT)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfDvXmIG3BI

Nick

 

[ranger04]

Which ever pipe you go with X or H, us high flow cats to keep your car legal. Off road pipes are for the track and are not street legal. A lot of the manufactures sell cated X and H pipes that flow verywell.

 

[walter]

I'd like to know who has a nice catted H pipe without having to go through long tube headers. Love the sound but the magnaflow catted X seems like the way to go for now to stay legit and increase flow.

Here's mine stock H pipe with Steeda axlebacks.

View attachment 336066

View attachment 336068

 

[white07gt-cs]

You folks are great! The info and clips you provided straightened things out for me. I decided to go with just the GTA's, for now. I'll be looking into Pro Chamber next but I have to stay SMOG legal as this is a CA car. Thanks for all your input!!! Rick