When selecting an aftermarket exhaust system, it's important to pick between double and single exhaust. In this guide, we'll talk about the differences between them and why you would want one over the other.
SINGLE VS. DUAL EXHAUST
A common misconception is the difference between double and single exhaust is equal to the amount of exhaust flow points on the vehicle: one or two. But some vehicles may have dual exhaust tips while the general system remains single, or may split at the muffler, which results in a dual exit on what's technically still a single exhaust system. At a true dual exhaust system, every manifold is attached to its independent exhaust system.
Single and dual exhaust systems' availability is contingent on the number of manifolds your vehicle has. While four-cylinder and five-cylinder motors have a single exhaust manifold with one pipe going into the toaster or DPFE, a V6 or engine will have two manifolds. On one exhaust system, the manifolds flow electrons into a Y tube, which joins the rest of the system. On a dual exhaust system, each manifold gets its series of pipes.
Benefits Of Single Exhaust Systems
Many OEM exhaust systems utilize a single exhaust design as it is less costly to produce and provides a fantastic balance of power and economy. These systems can be replaced without needing to exhaust. Aftermarket single exhaust systems include broader pipes that will help the system breathe as well as upgraded mufflers that will provide you the sound you want, all with being able to work inside the existing Y-pipe and converter (or even DPFE).
Benefits Of Double Exhaust Systems
Updating from one exhaust to a dual exhaust system may have a considerable effect. The second pipe will allow for greater air flow through the machine, which may reduce back strain at various points such as the manifolds and in the muffler. This decrease in back pressure allows for greater horsepower. You'll also be able to select your new mufflers, giving you control over the kind of flow (straight-through, glasspack, Flowmaster Laminar Flow) and audio output.
