Keeping OEM muffler counter-productive? Options

[Xander_X]

So I'm starting to think about a custom exhaust system. Problem is, I HATE 99% of the mufflers out there and I LOVE the look of the stock GT muffler. Mine is in mint condition as well but my flex pipe is about ready to need replacing. I figured while I was at it, I would replace the entire thing with a high flow exhaust manifold and 2" stainless piping. I'm curious if I were to keep the stock muffler, if it was going to be counter productive to the decrease in back-pressure even though it's at the end-of-the-line.

This isn't really a post to try to find an alternate muffler so much as it is to become more informed of what would happen if the stock muffler was kept.

[RabidTRD]

The stock muffler isn't terribly restrictive. Piping going into it is 1 7/8" so you would have to cut a hole larger in the end of it and weld in the 2". Outlet is 2" though, so you'd have a true 2" exhaust. Piping on our cars gets smaller. Near the end where it bends over the rear control arms. I think I measured 1 3/4" when I took mine off, which is stupid. Most of the pipe before it is 1 7/8" or 2". Unfortunately because yours is OBD2, you can't delete the cat, which enhances the sound (and the 5S-FE has a really great sound. My Honda buddies hate me for it) but opening it up a bit will encrease flow and you should notice better throttle response and more MPG. You'll keep torque, because of the smaller size and won't really increase hp much, if at all... But it will sound deeper and feel a bit quicker on the response.

I ran a full 2" SS exhaust on my 99 Camry LE with a 5S motor, so what I'm saying is what I have found.