Articles

An exhaust upgrade is second only to buying new wheels when it comes to altering a Ford Mustang. It doesn't matter if you are only exchanging them mid-pipes or replace the system completely, Mustang owners have one common goal: An exhaust system that lasts and sounds great. The only way to make sure this will happen is to improve on the current exhaust system. So, what are the elements of the exhaust system in a Ford Mustang?

There is more to the mustang exhaust system than just pieces of metal bolted together. Your mustang exhaust performs many functions, the most important ones are the following. They move the hot exhaust gases coming from your engine out of the car. They limit the noise output and reduce exhaust emissions. The faster you are able increase the air flow through the engine the better overall performance you will have and the exhaust is integral this.

How does the exhaust system do these things? It is done by pushing the gases from your engine, through the pipes and mufflers, and out of your car. There are three main components to the mustang exhaust system. All Mustangs have the same set-up, regardless of the year of making. I highly recommend upgrading both the headers and going with cat-back exhaust. Not only will you improve performance, you will improve the sound and fuel efficiency in some cases.

We begin with the manifolds. This piece is connected to the exhaust ports, and joins the waste gases from all of the cylinders into a single location. Some people will refer to this piece as the "mustang headers". Despite the fact the names are both used, they actually refer to two slightly different things. Manifolds force the gases into a single chamber at maximum speed and pressure. The headers consist of tubes which allow the gases to flow at their own pace, like water through a drain.

Next in our list of components is the mid-pipe. Every mustang exhaust system features a mid-pipe. The mid-pipe is where the gases are directed when they exit the manifold. Equalizing the exhaust pulses is the core reason for having this. Exhaust pulses are bursts of exhaust leaving the engine to the pipe and aid in system efficiency resulting in more engine power.

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.