The term cat back exhaust can be defined as the section of an exhaust system that connects after the last catalytic converter in the system. It typically consists of a tailpipe, resonator, and muffler, but depending on make and model, it may also include a midpipe, X-pipe, H-pipe, or Y-pipe.

Adding an aftermarket jack back can provide several benefits, the first of which is more power. Aftermarket exhaust systems are designed to have a freer flow than the stock exhaust, typically incorporating larger diameter piping and higher grade mandrel bent tubing for more laminar flow. These changes can result in a reduced level of back pressure in the engine’s manifold, which means the engine can breathe a little easier and unleash more horsepower and torque. How much horsepower you get depends largely on the design of your factory exhaust system and the quality of the catalytic converters that sit in front of it. If the stock catalytic converters are quite restrictive then less power can be obtained from a cat back exhaust system. If the stock cat can flow a lot of exhaust creating too much restriction, then a rear exhaust system from the cat should offer a nice power boost.

An increase in fuel economy is often experienced after installation. This is the result of the engine not having to work as hard pushing exhaust gases through the pipes. This reduces the total amount of load on the engine, resulting in higher efficiency and MPG. This increase in fuel economy usually occurs when traveling at highway speeds, but can sometimes be noticed when driving in the city as well.

Another great benefit of a Cat Back exhaust system is the sound they can produce. Whether you just want a little more growl or all-out growl, there’s a system out there to satisfy your ears. This is actually a very important consideration when shopping, so be sure to do your homework first. There’s nothing worse than spending a lot of time installing an auto part and finding out it’s not what you wanted.