Stainless Exhaust, My $0.02

[Larry M.]

A month ago, I installed a welded stainless exhaust system on our car, replacing a decades-old service exhaust system. I realize that it's certainly not original, but since I don't have our car judged it's not an issue. The fit was perfect; installation and alignment were as easy as can be expected completeing the work in a garage with the car on jackstands; and the sound of the system is great improvement (read: quieter) than the old system. Mike Jr. at Allen's was great to work with; the system arrived two days after I ordered it.
I mention this because I have read others at different times describe the sound of stainless systems as 'tinny' (I haven't detected that), and have reported difficulty with expansion of the sysyem when hot (I've looked for, and have not seen that).
As an added plus, even though it's entirely irrelevant to exhaust system performance, the new system looks great, and should continue to remain that way.

[Rob A.]

Re: Stainless Exhaust, My $0.02

Larry,

Your system was the standard undercar exhaust...correct?

[Larry M.]

Re: Stainless Exhaust, My $0.02

Yes it was, Rob. Alignment was very simple and fast with the welded syetem. Car is a '72.

[Joe L.]

Re: Stainless Exhaust, My $0.02

Larry-----

Your observations are exactly what I would expect.

The sound of all reproduction exhaust systems is not exactly the same as original, so that's to be expected. However, in my opinion, the sound of the stainless steel system is not significantly different from any reproduction carbon steel system currently available.

The "growth when hot" claims are absurd. Any exhaust system will expand when hot. The difference in expansion between a carbon steel system and a stainless steel system is negligible. I used a stainless system for about 20 years and never noticed any significant issues when the system was hot.

Your exhaust system will always look nice. However, it won't always look just like it did when new. It will "yellow" and, possibly, "blue" in some areas. Those are a lot better than RUST, though. Lots, lots better!

[Larry M.]

Re: Stainless Exhaust, My $0.02

Joe,

I HATE rust. That's one factor in favor of fiberglass-, or other non-metallic- bodied cars.

One of the great disappointments of my younger days was watching the quarter panels and lower rear fender sections of my 1969 Camaro slowly disappear over the years. Of course, that car was driven year-round, and in the rust belt, so the deterioration was no surprise, and in fact, was to be expected.

The exhaust pipes directly off the exhaust manifolds have yellowed slightly. No problem with me, whatsoever.

'As God is my witness, I'll never have oxidation again!' At least, not on the exhaust system.