Should I go Longtube?

[bryan0]

I have a 99 GT with a vortech blower, and all I have exhaust wise is a mac cat back. I want to buy some mac longtubes with a matching o/r prochamber. I want to louden it up and gain some power.
Here's my dilemma: Where I live (Connecticut) we have to get emission tested every 2 years, they plug it into a computer, they don't snif. I have to get it tested in the next couple weeks so if I get the headers, I'll be alright for 2 years. I've read a lot about doing the install and it pretty much sounds like a PITA. I'm confident that I could do it as I installed my vortech in my garage, but is it really so horrible a job that I really wouldn't want to do it every 2 years? I figure I'll probably own the car another 6 or so years, so that's only 2 or 3 installs.
I really want to get them, but I want to "keep it real" too.
What are you guys' thoughts on this?
Any input is appreciated

Thanks

 

[gtvertsoon]

You can get around the emissions thing by getting a catted midpipe. I initially had one when I first put on my Mac longtubes. No way in hell you are gettin under that car and taking off the LT's every 2 years. As long as you have cats (or heat shields) and MIL's, you'll pass emissions.

As far as the install, if you have simple car knowhow, it can be done. LT's and midpipe were almost the first mods on my car and a friend and I did it on our own. We used a lift at the base I work on, which made it much easier. Drop the k-member, the suspension comes apart much easier than you think.

 

[bryan0]

Well, I think for now I'll buy the o/r prochamber then sometime within the next 2 years I'll either buy a catted pipe, change back to stock for emissions, or sell the car.

I'm really looking for a smooth, rumbly tone that's definitely not obnoxiously loud. I'd accomplish this with the o/r prochamber I think. But would I be cheating myself by saving a hundred bucks and going with just the mac o/r h-pipe? How significant is the difference in power and sound?

Thanks