Getting a new exhaust system is one of the first mods many car enthusiasts make. It's easy to see why; a good exhaust can make your car sound great, and it can also improve performance. But what types of exhaust systems are there, and what's the difference between them? In this article, JEGS will be comparing two of the most popular types of exhaust systems: cat-back exhausts and axle-back exhausts.
No matter the direction you take your build, one of these exhaust systems is likely to turn heads the next time you hit the streets.
What is a Cat Back?
Short of doing a full exhaust system, a cat-back is the most complete exhaust upgrade you can make. But what is a cat back exhaust? A cat-back replaces all exhaust system components from your car's catalytic converter(s) back, including the mufflers. In many cases, it also includes bigger-diameter piping and exhaust tips.
Manufacturers like MagnaFlow, Borla, Flowmaster, and others available from JEGS can all help you get the cat-back system of your dreams. Every system has been carefully designed and engineered to provide the maximum power increase and enhance the sound of your vehicle.
Since a cat back system doesn't replace the stock catalytic converters, emissions won't be impacted, making them completely street legal.
However, if opting for a cat-back system, JEGS recommends checking with your local noise ordinances before making your final purchase to avoid any problems.
What is an Axle Back?
An axle-back is a more budget-friendly way to change the look, sound, and performance of your exhaust system. Unlike a cat-back system, axle-backs only replace the over-axle pipe(s), mufflers and tips; everything else remains stock.
This makes axle-backs a much less invasive installation, which is often a do-it-yourself job. Axle-backs are also emissions-friendly since they don't remove the catalytic converters.
Keep in mind that an axle-back system will not provide as much of a power increase as a cat-back system since it's not replacing any of piping in front of the rear axle. However, if sound is your primary concern, axle-backs are a great way to go.
Pros & Cons of Cat Back
Each exhaust system will have its own set of pros and cons that you'll want to consider before making your decision. Short of getting new headers and deleting the catalytic converters, a cat-back will provide the most complete upgrade to your exhaust system.
Pros:
Increased Power
Unleashing a few extra ponies from your engine is one of the main reasons many enthusiasts install a cat-back system. With the larger piping and free-flowing mufflers, exhaust gases exit the engine more efficiently, resulting in a noticeable power increase.
Customizable Sound
A cat-back gives you the most control over the sound of your car. You can choose from a variety of mufflers and tips from JEGS to get the sound and look you want.
Easy Install
Installing a cat-back is a relatively easy job that can be completed in a few hours with basic tools. In most cases, no welding is required, and everything bolts on using factory-style hangers.
Cons:
Cost
A cat-back system will cost more than an axle-back system since it replaces more of the exhaust. But the cost is often worth it for the increased power and sound.
Check Engine Light
While a cat-back won't impact emissions, it will trigger a check engine light if your car is equipped with downstream O2 sensors. This can usually be remedied by welding in a bung or coding it out from the ECU entirely.
Pros & Cons of Axle Back
If you're looking for a less expensive way to change the sound of your car without sacrificing power, an axle-back system is the way to go. Its low cost and easy installation make it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Pros:
Affordable
An axle-back system will cost less than a cat-back since it replaces fewer parts. This makes it a great option if you're on a budget. Starting from just a few hundred dollars, axle-back systems are one of the most affordable ways to change the sound of your car.
Simple Install
An axle-back is much easier to install than a cat-back since there are fewer parts. In most cases, it can be installed in a few hours with basic tools. Some minor cutting may be required to remove the old mufflers, but no welding is necessary.
More Options
As most axle back exhaust systems can be installed without fuss, they offer more options for the do-it-yourselfer. There are plenty of mufflers and tips that can be easily interchanged to make for a completely custom setup.
Cons:
Less Power
An axle-back system will not provide as much of a power increase as a cat-back since it doesn't replace any of the piping in front of the rear axle. If you're looking for maximum power, a cat-back is the way to go.
Limited Sound
Although an axle-back exhaust is a great way to increase sound, it won’t be as loud as a cat-back. This is because it doesn't replace any of the exhaust ahead of the rear tires..
Cat Back Vs. Axle Back
So, what's the verdict?
Both axle-backs and cat-backs have their pros and cons that you'll want to consider before making your decision. If you're looking for increased power, a cat-back is the way to go. If you're looking for a less expensive way to change the sound of your car, an axle-back is the way to go.
It's ultimately up to you to decide which system is right for your car. But remember, both axle-backs and cat-backs offer a great way to improve the engine note and performance of your car.
Which is Better?
The axle back vs cat back debate has been going on for years, and there's no clear winner. It depends on what you're looking for in an exhaust system. If we had to choose, JEGS recommends spending the extra money on a cat-back system.
Check out the wide selection of axle-backs and cat-backs to choose from now. No matter which system you decide on, we've got you covered.
