Hi Flow Cats/ Test Pipe

[fitbikes07]

I am just curious why so many people opt for test pipes instead of trying to get a high flow cat. The HP difference is only 1 or 2 hp and you will not be breaking the law and won't have to remove it for emissions tests. If a custom exhaust place is local, it's only a few more bucks than a test pipe and just seems like less of a hassle.

Also, some of the test pipes look like they are fairly low quality.. just exhaust tubing with flanges welded on.. The $100 price might be a cheap price if you are getting 10hp out of it, but it must be a HUGE markup for these manufacturers!!

Any input as to why someone should get a test pipe instead of a custom fabricated high flow cat?

 

[CEL157]

You might be right but at the same time most people go with a test pipe do to the tone it gives you. Thats why i did it.

 

[bova80]

techincally you are still breaking the law since you are removing a factory emissions equipment. it just won't appear like you are since you replaced it. and if you are only doing a test pipe then you still have another cat so its no big deal.

 

[fitbikes07]

I believe the laws in massachusetts are that you CAN modify exhaust, but you can NOT remove pieces.. So a test pipe is illegal because you remove the cat, high flow cat is not illegal since you are replacing the cat with another one.

 

[markspd6]

high flow cats are not legal.. and they most likely wont pass smog either.. not the visual part.. but, the performance and ability to pass smog has never been guaranteed by any company ive talked to.. so unless you know something i dont.. id say: dont waste the extra cash.. just go test pipe..(cabpatch)

 

[bova80]

i only run one high flow cat on my cp-e downpipe and it passes emissions, although here in PA it's just obdII emissions test.

 

[markspd6]

they dont do a sniff test huh?? in CA theyre serious and if you wanna squeak by it costs $$ to pay someone off for a pass..

 

[jaymangrum]

yes some of the test pipes are merely tubing with flanges welded on, but there are some nice ones out there, i.e. the corksport one. Test pipe/resonator, whatever, its a solid, quality and good sounding peice. Ill keep my full CS exhaust and test pipe, where i live now doesnt require emmissions testing at all. thankfully for me.
The high flow cats, magnaflow actually makes high flow cats for SOME vehicles (SS 5yr warr), as per the state laws, they are different state to state.
On the flip side:
If you own a dealership and the epa finds out and has proof that your shop has modified an exhaust in any way other than stock, that would increase emmissions output or added electronics that do the same (i.e. power commanders) your dealership is subject to a 10k fine per violation found. When i worked at a Honda shop in VA this was becoming a big issue due to undercover inspectors snooping around quite a bit.

 

[leo766]

i live in VA and the test pipe is the best mod ever... just drive down to turboxs they make a pipe for the ms3 and 6 and since they manfucature it, its always in stock... no wait for delivery... had it on the same day i decided to buy it...

awesome test pipe too, with built in flex section... i like the cs and SU pipes too... but i dont like waiting... heh

 

[fitbikes07]

Just got back from getting a 3" magnaflow high flow cat put in.. cost 200 for parts and labor. Definitely worth the money. The exhaust has more rumble now as well as a noticeable increase in power.

I am happy with the choice. It was only 30 more than a corksport testpipe/resonator and I will pass inspection and do not need to worry about getting tickets and changing it out.

I recommend this setup!

 

[jaymangrum]

fitbikes. from exp on my ss magnaflow (on my offroad truck not my ms6) go get some vht header paint from autozone and spray it. its SS but around the spot welds on my cats heat shields it started to rust a lil, i guess due to the spot welding from magnaflow. just what happened to me and after i sprayed it, havent seen any rust at all, but i sprayed the whole cat.

 

[OJ Bartley]

Just got back from getting a 3" magnaflow high flow cat put in.. cost 200 for parts and labor. Definitely worth the money. The exhaust has more rumble now as well as a noticeable increase in power.

I am happy with the choice. It was only 30 more than a corksport testpipe/resonator and I will pass inspection and do not need to worry about getting tickets and changing it out.

I recommend this setup!

fitbikes, do you have any pictures of the setup? I'd love to see them if you do.