CE Lancer Exhaust Thread

[Kicky]

So I know there's been quite a few threads asking about exhausts about a CE, and I thought I'd help out by creating a thread that could be stickied so we don't have to repeat our answers every time someone asks.

I'll add info as everyone posts their opinions and other info.

CATBACK SYSTEMS
So, everyone has a different opinion about these.
I've been told, that for a N/A engine (1.5 OR 1.8) a 2 inch, or 2 and 1/4 inch mild steel, press bent system should be sufficient, unless you plan on doing massive engine work, which a 2 and a half inch press or mandril bent mild steel will be more than enough. Anyone going forced induction should also be alright with this setup.
Now, everyone has a different opinion on exhausts.
Personally, I don't mind cannons, as long as it is a proper one, none of this cheap SCA/AUTOBARN crap. Others say a good high flow redback twin tip muffler gives a nice note.
I would suggest a 12 inch or so resonator in the system to keep drone down, and keep the cops off your back.

EXTRACTORS
Basically there's two kinds of extractors modifiers use - 4-2-1 and 4-1.
4-2-1 gives better torque and low down power - good for everyday use and anyone who isnt going to be in the higher revs all the time.
4-1 gives the opposite - better power in the upper section in rpm.

CATALYTIC CONVERTERS
These guys convert the noxoius gas that exits your engine to less harmful substances.
The stock cat isnt too bad, but for anyone wanting better power, a higher flow - 200 or 300 cell per inch will suffice.

That's about all I can think of for now. Please post your oppinions/any information you have, and I'll update this once I have time

 

[Sixes350]

CATS
From doing some research on my own vehicle (cats) I have found that spending a few $ on getting an exhaust shop to "open up" your stock cat to a larger in / exit size is equally beneficial and saves you a lot of $ over buying a new one and having it installed. It is highly possible that your stock cat still has plenty of life left in it. It also keeps the car legal with emissions. Some of the 200CPI - 100CPI cats and lower just dont do a good enough job of stopping the nasty stuff from leaving your car (yes they flow REALLY well but so does not having a cat at all) but can end up costing your exhaust being probed and an EPA ticket slapped on your dash which ultimately will hurt your bank account BIG time.

Some of the cats I have seen are a downright rip off (and some just cheap rubbish) but lets be honest, who really cares if you have a shiny, polished cat under your car. No one is going to see it except your mechanic or maybe your mates when you jack it up to show off.

On cats, some people say the 100K mark is time for replacement but all depends. If you ever remove your cat, have a look and if you can see through the honeycomb (end to end) then chances are it is still good to use. If you have the stock cats installed, be aware that they can break / fracture if you hit speed humps all the time. If this happens they can break up and block your exit pipe (personal experience) causing a mild heart attack thinking the motor has given up the ghost due to "no oompf". The internals of a stock cat are generally made from a ceramic type honeycomb and they don't like to be bounced on or dented.

My 2c but if you simply must have a shiny new cat, choose wisely and shop around as not all cats are equal. My advice is to save your hard earned $ and put it toward something with more bang for buck or do what I do and have the stock cats opened up for a fraction of the cost of a new one.

EXHAUST
Remember, size isn't everything. Going too big on your exhaust will only rob you of power low to mid range even though you may think you have an increase. The smaller the motor, the more it relies on having back pressure to help things along. Of course if you have heaps of mods, large intake, head work, turbo etc then having a larger exhaust will help.