test pipe instead of cat- hows it sound?
 

curious if anyone with an SC 3.0 has replaced only the test pipe and had impressions of the sound. Is it much improved? Or did you end up putting the sport muffler on as well because you needed the extra rumble? Does only replacing the test pipe leave a drone noise?

thanks

I couldn't tell the difference (in the sound or power), then I went w/ the SSI's and Dansk dual-in, dual-out stainless muffler. Now it has (had) a drone and a noticable power increase! It will again after a valve job. SmileWavy

Some one had posted that their gutted converter had more sound than the stock converter of a friends car. I assumed there would be some change in sound with a test pipe?!

My car was louder with a GHL muffler, and much louder with the GHL and cat by-pass, so I would think the by pass and stock muffler would be louder than with the cat. I'm happy with the GHL and by pass combo.

I had an 83 that I put a test pipe on and I also couldn't tell any difference.

You could leave the cat. on and run a short pipe out to the valence, essentially removing the muffler completely.
J.P.

Gutted Cat sounds deeper and louder but nicer.

Mel

Don't gut the cat; your can will run like crap due to the increased backpressure.
A test pipe will lower the tone of the exhaust note, especially at idle. Your car won't be much louder, though.

Replace the cat and test pipe with a euro pre-muffler. That will remove the back pressure from the cat and the note you are looking for. It should increase HP as well, but don't ask how much. I don't know.

I have the Bursch muffler with a test pipe, and noticed a bit deeper "rumbling" when I replaced the cat...don't really notice any increased HP, although ads will claim it. Right now am thinking about putting the cat back on.

I'm looking for a cheap power/sound increase -untill I get some ssi's and dual in/out muffler (or megaphones).