Q: What is the difference between an axle-back / cat-back / header-back / turbo-back?
A: These terms refer to the section of the exhaust that the new system replaces. The "-back" suffix refers to the piping from that section and back (ie. a cat-back system is from the catalytic converter and back).
An axle-back refers to only the rear section (right after the axle, rear beam suspension, etc). Generally it would be the last bolt-on section with the rear muffler. (Shop axle-backs)
A cat-back (also called CBE Cat-back Exhaust) system replaces all the piping that bolts after the catalytic converter and includes an axle-back section. (Shop cat-backs)
A header-back exhaust connects to the exhaust header or manifold and generally includes a pipe to delete the catalytic converter (sometimes called test pipe or cat-delete pipe) with a cat-back system. Some header-back exhausts are race systems designed for off-road use, which remove emissions equipment for maximum horsepower and torque power gains. (Shop header-backs)
A turbo-back (also called TBE Turbo-back Exhaust) system replaces all the piping connected to the turbo (including the turbo down-pipe, catalytic converter, and piping). This is designed to minimize exhaust back-pressure after the turbo to allow for shorter spool time and faster response. A turbo-back system usually replaces the stock down-pipe and cat-back exhaust system, and deletes the catalytic converter. Turbo-backs are also available in street-legal designs with high flow catalytic converters to increase performance while remaining street legal (in most states). (Shop turbo-backs)
In general, axle-back and cat-backs do not modify emissions equipment and are considered aftermarket original equipment replacement parts. Sometimes an axle-back may also be called a cat-back depending on the design of the exhaust system.
Q: Are your exhausts street and/or smog legal? Do your cat backs have CARB exemption numbers?
A: The vast majority (over 95%) of our exhaust systems are smog legal and are street legal when used with the included silencer. Some of our exhaust products are race products designed for racing or off road use only. Please check your local and state laws. Catback exhausts do not require CARB exemption because they are bolted after the catalytic converter and maintain stock exhaust routing and sensors.
Q: What is the difference between Tsudo exhausts and other brand "x" exhausts?
A: Tsudo exhausts are all made completely out of T304 stainless steel, the best stainless steel in the industry. Other companies may use aluminized mild steel, painted mild steel or cheaper stainless steel to save costs. Tsudo exhausts are also all constructed with mandrel bent tubing. All mufflers and resonators used in the exhaust systems are using a straight-through design, having good muffling capacity while producing the best performance.
Q: Why is T304 stainless steel better than other types of steel (mild, aluminized, T430 steel)?
A: T304 stainless steel has the highest corrosion resistance compared to T430 and other grades of stainless steel. It will never rust and is the strongest steel for use in exhaust systems. Painted mild steel and aluminized steel will eventually rust/corrode and fail over time when the coating of paint/aluminum corrodes through.
Q: Why is mandrel bent tubing better?
A: Mandrel bent tubing has a uniform diameter throughout the bend. A 2.5" mandrel bend would be 2.5" all the way through. This keeps the exhaust flow high and efficient, maximizing the performance potential of the system.
A crush bent pipe is literally crushed into a bend, making the diameter smaller where the bend is made. A typical 2.5" crush-bent pipe could only be 2" in diameter or even less at the bend.
A picture of a mandrel bent (left) and crush bent (right) pipe is shown below.
Q: Why can't I just have any exhaust shop make an exhaust system for me?
A: A mandrel bending machine easily costs in the tens of thousands of dollars, so most exhaust shops can ONLY make crush bends for their piping. This results in piping that won't perform as well as a mandrel bent system. The typical neighborhood exhaust shop also would not stock high quality stainless steel piping. The low quality aluminized steel that is normally used will rust and corrode from the moisture and heat in the exhaust system and is not as durable as T304 stainless steel.
Q: How do I remove the silencer? (Applies to systems that include a silencer)
A: The silencer is pre-installed into the muffler tip from the factory and can sometimes be lodged in the tip because of shipping. The silencer can be removed with a hook device, usually a thick coat hanger or tool. Most exhaust shops would also be able to remove it for a small or no fee.
Q: How hard is it to install the exhaust system? Can you install it for me?
A: All of our exhaust systems/components are built for straight forward installation with hand tools. ALWAYS use jack stands and wheel chocks on level ground. Safety should always be the first priority when working on your car. We do have installation services for customers that pickup from our location. Please contact us for details.