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Author Topic: Cat back exhaust?  (Read 12574 times)

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Offline tazz

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Cat back exhaust?
« on: February 27, 2009, 11:43:16 PM »
What brand are most of you guys running?
A place on the Net has a Magnaflow Cat Back for the GXP for $475 shipped.  Is that a good price?
Also about how much would a exhaust shop charge to install?
Thanks

Offline Cheers

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #1 on: February 27, 2009, 11:59:42 PM »
That is what I have, but paid closed to $400. do NOT forget a SOLO CAT as well huge difference.

Offline KWhale

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #2 on: February 28, 2009, 01:40:13 AM »
I ordered the Solo based on the opinions of many many people on the forums, and the numerous sound bytes out there as well.  I went with a high flow cat as well though.  I have not had a chance to get it installed yet ( #$!$ winter ).  I talked a few shops, and it should be about 1 hour labor to do a cat back only install.  Jeff at Solo knows what customer service is all about, and will help answer your questions if you call him.  They are a supporting vendor here, you can check out their wed site, it has prices and sound bytes as well.
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Offline Sly Bob

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #3 on: February 28, 2009, 07:09:10 AM »
Solo is the way most people go. Jeff is awesome and the sound of their systems are incredible. With the Solo, years after the install it will still look good as the quality of the material is better than many manufacturers use.

Check out Spiky's Solo sound clip page at http://kappaperformance.com/forum/index.php?topic=351.0 and Solo's site at http://solo-performance.com

You won't regret it.
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Offline snaponbob

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #4 on: February 28, 2009, 10:25:03 AM »
What brand are most of you guys running?
A place on the Net has a Magnaflow Cat Back for the GXP for $475 shipped.  Is that a good price?
Also about how much would a exhaust shop charge to install?
Thanks

You MUST verify if this auction item is a 3" or 2.5" system. The 3" is the preferred system for the GXP, NOT the 2.5"

I have both the Solo Performance 3" Race Pipe (single pipe straight 3" w/no muffler) that I used for autocross when I was in A/Stock. Sounds great, quicker spoll up of the turbo. However, if you get a Solo hi-flow cat or catless downpipe, the Race Pipe will be LOUD. Because of that, I am running a MagnaFlow 3" cat back. Still louder than the Race Pipe with stock cat, but it sure allows the engine to breathe with my Westers tune.

If you can not get a THREE inch Magnaflow for cheap, get with Jeff at Solo Performance (great guy, even better products) for his systems. Worth every dime.
Bob Buxbaum
snaponbob AT comcast DOT net
2007 Redline, Revalved Konis, Crazy alignment
FE3 front and Z0K rear bars, owner installed pwr lock buttons
catless downpipe, SP custom exhaustWester's tune
racing springs and adjustable perches
DDM ProBeam & Tower brace, CCW 18x11 wheels for racing

Offline spicy3480

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #5 on: February 28, 2009, 04:58:03 PM »
If you want a SOLO exhaust, I am now working for them so you can order directly through me.  I will answer any questions you may have.  Simply drop me a PM and I will be there to assist you in any way I can.
Steve Mariano
Solo Performance
516-655-9002 (7 days a week, until midnight EST)
goingsolo2@hotmail.com


2007 Mysterious Solstice GXP
INTRUDER

Offline DeepBlueGXP

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #6 on: March 02, 2009, 06:02:20 PM »
I've bit the bullet and I'm getting a Solo Mach Shorty to replace my Magnaflow 3" so I'll sell that one.  Where are you located?

Offline spicy3480

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #7 on: March 02, 2009, 06:56:32 PM »
Joe...!!!! going SOLO....woohoo!!!!
Steve Mariano
Solo Performance
516-655-9002 (7 days a week, until midnight EST)
goingsolo2@hotmail.com


2007 Mysterious Solstice GXP
INTRUDER

Offline Critterman

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #8 on: March 02, 2009, 07:41:14 PM »
It's about time he came over to the dark side
GONE: (but not forgotten) 2006 Cool named IXABEL (BISH-AH-BEL) Mayan for "Good Roads"
DDM StageIII intercooled Supercharger, Wisco ceramic coated pistons, Carrillo rods, superTech valves and Springs, Ported and polished head, Exedy Stage II Clutch,
big brake kit, slotted/drilled Rotors w/Porterfield pads & blue juice, Backbone, Probeam, Cross Strut Brace Underhood, trunk, & door Lights, ZOK suspension
JPM Center console, door inserts, & dash Seat bolster & lumbar support
Focuztech Tri-Y Header & hi-flow cat, Solo Performance SQR-2, Norm's Rear facia, Heated Seats, Blackface gau

Offline RUTurbo

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #9 on: March 02, 2009, 07:42:39 PM »
I have RPi's  system, not many Sol driver's got em, their more popular with the Sky owners like myself. The sound can't be beat and I'm prefer the 3.0 -2.5 muffler-less design. The only negative is the price, the RPi GT is probably the most costly exhaust system out for the Kappa twins.
Keep Chopping!!!

Offline LatinVenom

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #10 on: March 02, 2009, 08:55:53 PM »
I have to agree about the sound.
While we were at the Orlando meet this weekend there were a few SKY owners with the RPI setup.
The sound of this system is one of the best I have heard.
I will not change my Magnaflow to it, to pricy as mentioned but nice sound.
Solstice GXP 2007.
Aggressive and fully loaded.
Mods: Magnaflow 2.5" exhaust, DDM Backbone & ProBeam,ZOK suspension,LV Kappa Front Chassis Brace, BTF Turbo Upgraded Wheel, Windristrictor, JPM Center console,arms,tulip,side doors,DDM Upgraded wheel tune.

Offline DeepBlueGXP

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #11 on: March 02, 2009, 09:19:06 PM »
Jeff is starting to make Exhaust Tips on all the Solo Exhausts for the Sky now.  Some good things to come!!!  See Spiky3480 for details.

Offline tazz

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #12 on: March 02, 2009, 10:31:01 PM »
I have to agree about the sound.
While we were at the Orlando meet this weekend there were a few SKY owners with the RPI setup.
The sound of this system is one of the best I have heard.
I will not change my Magnaflow to it, to pricy as mentioned but nice sound.
So my ? is if I can get brand new a Magnaflow 3" for $375 shipped would I more than likely be happy with it? 
Another ? is why does the Hi Flow cost so much for the Solstice even in a Magnaflow?  Just too new so cost is high?

Offline tazz

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #13 on: March 02, 2009, 10:32:16 PM »
I've bit the bullet and I'm getting a Solo Mach Shorty to replace my Magnaflow 3" so I'll sell that one.  Where are you located?
Kansas.

Offline snaponbob

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #14 on: March 02, 2009, 10:39:23 PM »
So my ? is if I can get brand new a Magnaflow 3" for $375 shipped would I more than likely be happy with it? 
Another ? is why does the Hi Flow cost so much for the Solstice even in a Magnaflow?  Just too new so cost is high?

1) Where are you getting a 3" MagnaFlow for under $400?
2) When you ask about the cost of a "Hi Flow", what are you referring to?
Bob Buxbaum
snaponbob AT comcast DOT net
2007 Redline, Revalved Konis, Crazy alignment
FE3 front and Z0K rear bars, owner installed pwr lock buttons
catless downpipe, SP custom exhaustWester's tune
racing springs and adjustable perches
DDM ProBeam & Tower brace, CCW 18x11 wheels for racing

Offline tazz

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #15 on: March 02, 2009, 11:24:15 PM »
Online there doing a blowout special for a brand new in box and I have the chance to get one of a few left.
Saw a Highflow cat on Solo for $700 and even Magnaflow for a NA Solstice was around $700.
Ok I read it wrong on Solo. 
Solo quoted me a price of $375 plus $30 shipping for the HighFlow.
I was thinking more like $200 for a Magnaflow but even they wanted over $600.
Tha's why Im asking whats so special about the Solstice High Flow Cat?
This one is for the NA Solstice so Im assuming the one for the GXP is more.
http://www.car-sound.com/02product/displaydirectfit01.asp?catalogid=25156&directfit=24203
http://www.car-sound.com/02product/displaydirectfit01.asp?catalogid=25152&directfit=23978
« Last Edit: March 02, 2009, 11:39:18 PM by tazz »

Offline DeepBlueGXP

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #16 on: March 02, 2009, 11:49:15 PM »
Tazz, I take it you have a NA?  The Solo CAT is for the GXP for $375.  I bought my Magnaflow for $425.  Even if  you have the NA, get the GXP Magnaflow.  The NA one is a 2.5" while the GXP one is 3".

Offline tazz

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #17 on: March 02, 2009, 11:52:20 PM »
No I have a GXP.
Just need to word a bit clearer.
For Less than $400 shipped for the Magnaflow Cat back Im thinking go for it.
Then either I can wait or go for the Solo High Flow cat for $375.
« Last Edit: March 02, 2009, 11:55:03 PM by tazz »

Offline snaponbob

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #18 on: March 03, 2009, 12:21:50 AM »
No I have a GXP.
Just need to word a bit clearer.
For Less than $400 shipped for the Magnaflow Cat back Im thinking go for it.
Then either I can wait or go for the Solo High Flow cat for $375.

Tazz, I am starting to think you are getting the "cat back" exhaust SYSTEM confused with a "cat". One is the exhaust AFTER the catalytic converter, and the other is a Catalytic converter.

Same question about the "$400" MagnaFlow item. Is it an exhaust SYSTEM, or just a catalytic converter?
If you buy an exhaust system for a GXP make sure it is a 3" system. The 2.5" Magnaflow exhaust SYSTEMS are selling very cheaply on e-bay. The only GXP 3" exhaust on e-bay under $600 is not showing the name brand. It is probably an MF system, but you have to call to find out.

If you want a high flow catalytic converter, spend $400 with Solo Performance. Jeff DOES stand solidly behind his very good products. You are asking questions, and that is a VERY good thing. Once you "pull the trigger", you own what you get!! We can help guide you towards the path of fewer errors. If you want to drive up from Topeka and take a ride in a Redline with an MF system and a Solo downpipe (NO cat) you can get a sense of what it may sound like as it will be a bit louder than a MF system with a high flow cat. It might be the best 200 mile round trip you ever made. No consulting fee either. Of course, if you want me to DRIVE the car you'll find out what the exhaust and a tune will feel like.
Bob Buxbaum
snaponbob AT comcast DOT net
2007 Redline, Revalved Konis, Crazy alignment
FE3 front and Z0K rear bars, owner installed pwr lock buttons
catless downpipe, SP custom exhaustWester's tune
racing springs and adjustable perches
DDM ProBeam & Tower brace, CCW 18x11 wheels for racing

Offline KWhale

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #19 on: March 03, 2009, 01:23:08 AM »
Also Tazz, $375 + $30 shipping may seem a little expensive, but consider this.  They did extensive testing to make sure the new Cat doesn't throw any codes which is very important.  Also, if I remember correctly, the Solo Cat will also pass emission testing (if you have to pass those in your state).  You can check with Solo on that to make sure though, as I'm not 100% of the emissions part.

All things considered, that's a good price for what you get!
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Offline tazz

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #20 on: March 03, 2009, 09:34:43 AM »
Also Tazz, $375 + $30 shipping may seem a little expensive, but consider this.  They did extensive testing to make sure the new Cat doesn't throw any codes which is very important.  Also, if I remember correctly, the Solo Cat will also pass emission testing (if you have to pass those in your state).  You can check with Solo on that to make sure though, as I'm not 100% of the emissions part.

All things considered, that's a good price for what you get!
Yeah I was thing about that also.
Thanks

Offline tazz

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #21 on: March 03, 2009, 09:44:00 AM »
Tazz, I am starting to think you are getting the "cat back" exhaust SYSTEM confused with a "cat". One is the exhaust AFTER the catalytic converter, and the other is a Catalytic converter.

Same question about the "$400" MagnaFlow item. Is it an exhaust SYSTEM, or just a catalytic converter?
If you buy an exhaust system for a GXP make sure it is a 3" system. The 2.5" Magnaflow exhaust SYSTEMS are selling very cheaply on e-bay. The only GXP 3" exhaust on e-bay under $600 is not showing the name brand. It is probably an MF system, but you have to call to find out.

If you want a high flow catalytic converter, spend $400 with Solo Performance. Jeff DOES stand solidly behind his very good products. You are asking questions, and that is a VERY good thing. Once you "pull the trigger", you own what you get!! We can help guide you towards the path of fewer errors. If you want to drive up from Topeka and take a ride in a Redline with an MF system and a Solo downpipe (NO cat) you can get a sense of what it may sound like as it will be a bit louder than a MF system with a high flow cat. It might be the best 200 mile round trip you ever made. No consulting fee either. Of course, if you want me to DRIVE the car you'll find out what the exhaust and a tune will feel like.
That actually would be great to get a feel for how it sounds and rides.
Next ? is when would be a good time?
The only days open for me to drive down would anytime be on Tues & Fri since Im off the whole day.  The other days of the week are just too busy for me to do much of anything until after 6Pm.
If you aren't busy today I could do afternoon but that's probably not enough notice for you though.

Offline Critterman

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #22 on: March 03, 2009, 09:47:27 AM »
There are a bunch of people that bought the magnaflow and are happy with it, and there are some of those that bought, and then bit the bullet and bought another system, I am one.  My car with the supercharger, header, hi-flow cat and magnaflow, car was loud with an annoying drone.   I switched to a Solo SQR2
GONE: (but not forgotten) 2006 Cool named IXABEL (BISH-AH-BEL) Mayan for "Good Roads"
DDM StageIII intercooled Supercharger, Wisco ceramic coated pistons, Carrillo rods, superTech valves and Springs, Ported and polished head, Exedy Stage II Clutch,
big brake kit, slotted/drilled Rotors w/Porterfield pads & blue juice, Backbone, Probeam, Cross Strut Brace Underhood, trunk, & door Lights, ZOK suspension
JPM Center console, door inserts, & dash Seat bolster & lumbar support
Focuztech Tri-Y Header & hi-flow cat, Solo Performance SQR-2, Norm's Rear facia, Heated Seats, Blackface gau

Offline tazz

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #23 on: March 03, 2009, 09:55:24 AM »
I really want to get away from annoying loud or drone.
Just want a nice tone.
Ive had a DD truck that I like the sound and everything but on anything longer than short trips it gets old.  With others in the cabin you really have to almost shout or just not really speak much since it is hard to understand anyone with the noise.
The neighbors call me the Rooster because I wake them up when I leave for work when i take my truck early in the morning.

Offline DeepBlueGXP

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Re: Cat back exhaust?
« Reply #24 on: March 03, 2009, 09:59:22 AM »
Kwale is right on all accounts.  BTW, even the Magnaflow 3" exhaust system has a 2.5" front end.  It is reduced to fit over the stock CAT.  Jeff from Solo sold me a true 3" front end of the exhaust because the Magnaflow one didn't quite cover the larger exit of the new Solo CAT. 

Here are some pics of a magnaflow front end.  Notice the reduced area.



Here is the magnaflow next to a Solo exhaust front end.



You can see that the flare is bigger on the Solo.

I'm upgrading because once I added the Magnaflow and Solo CAT combination, I had some drone in 5th at 55.  Not a good spot for it either.  I had to shift to 4th to get rid of the drone.

Get the Solo Mach and CAT together as a package.  It is well worth the money and you will be very pleased with the sound and performance.

 

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