Mustang Exhaust - From The Header To The Tailpipe

by Troy Perkins

In terms of popularity, upgrading the exhaust of a Mustang is second only to replacing the wheels. It doesn't matter if you are changing out the mid-pipes or replacing the whole system --when you own a Mustang, you want the exhaust system to last and sound good. To get these results, you will need to improve and/or replace the components of your exhaust. What are the different components of the mustang exhaust?

The Mustang exhaust system is much more intricate than a few pieces of metal connected with bolts. There are many different functions performed by the mustang exhaust, the following being among the most important. They blow the hot air emitted by your engine away from the car. They reduce harmful emissions and limit the output of noise. The exhaust system is integral in increasing airflow through the engine. The faster air flow increases through the engine, the better your car performs.

How does the exhaust accomplish this? It is accomplished by pushing the gases that come from the engine through the pipes and muffler, on its way out of the car. There are three components in the mustang exhaust system. Every Mustang has the same set-up, no matter when it was made. I recommend strongly that you upgrade the headers and change to cat-back exhaust, which will not only improve your performance, but also the sound level and fuel efficiency often times.

The first component is called the manifolds. The manifolds are attached to the exhaust ports of the engine. They funnel the exhaust gases from the cylinders into a single exhaust passage that is the mid-pipe. The manifolds are sometimes referred to as mustang headers. They perform the same functions, but they are not exactly the same. A manifold generally has several holes converging into a common chamber. Headers normally have tubes that curve to join the exhaust ports to the exhaust pipe. This allows the gases to gently flow into the pipe, rather than slamming through the ports.

The next component, which is something included in each and every mustang exhaust, is the mid-pipe. when the gases depart the manifold, this is where they go. Equalization of exhaust pulses is the main purpose of having this. They are bursts of exhaust from the engine to the pipe, which allows the engine to produce more power while also helping the system run more efficiently.

The third component is called the mustang catback. The catback bolts on at the back of the catalytic converters. The assembly consists of the mufflers and the tailpipes. This is the final destination of the vicious gases from your engine. There are several aftermarket performance updates associated with headers, exhaust, and intake that are available. Your best source can be found by clicking the links within this article or resource box.

An exhaust upgrade is the way to make your Mustang look and sound great. The exhaust in your Mustang controls sound and emissions, and impacts performance because of air flow through the intake and exhaust system. Headers and a cat-back exhaust will improve performance, that Mustang sound, and fuel efficiency. Mustang headers smooth and synchronize the mustang exhaust to the mid-pipe. The mustang catback reduces back-pressure beyond the catalytic converter. Together these components can give you better performance, better efficiency, and that great sound. Click on the links here to find the best sources for upgrading your Mustang for a hot rod rumble that rocks.

Published March 27th, 2008

Filed in Recreation