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Uzone.id – Modifications, especially those of the exhaust part are usually a lure for car owners. Apart from making a car look sportier, alterations in exhaust systems are thought to offer a boost in power to a wide number of people. But is this the case? It is now time to discuss further about exhaust modification on vehicles and its performance.
However, to consider changes, it is necessary to get acquainted with the main purpose of the exhaust on the car. In layman’s language, the muffler also has the function to minimize engine noise, the sound of the engine generated throughout the process of combustion is quite loud. Since it is not right to disturb the environment the muffler works to eradicate the sound produced by the vehicle.
Of course, in addition to acting as a sound suppressant, the muffler also acts as a device to expel exhaust gasses. The combustion process generates exhaust gasses which contain several undesirable compounds. It is used in dispensing the exhaust gas out of the engine.
The other purpose of the muffler is to control back pressure. Back pressure can be defined as the pressure of exhaust gasses passing back into the combustion chamber. The back pressure is helped by the muffler so that the combustion process is made efficient.
Roger Penske, Team Owner of the Penske Racing Team, stated, “Performance of an engine depends not only on some solitary aspects but entails a horde. Exhaust modification is a treatment that can change this equilibrium. And what one needed to do is to be aware of the implications of any changes that might occur.”
Exhaust Modification and Performance
Exhaust modifications are commonly carried out by swapping out the standard exhaust with a new exhaust that is designed differently and may be made with different materials. This is one of the drives of discomfort that may need to be addressed to make the right decisions: for instance, pipe diameter.
It may be observed that an exhaust with a pipe diameter larger than the other pipe will always lower its back pressure.
Reducing back pressure could create a greater flow of exhaust gasses; thus, power at rpm may be enhanced. But whenever the back pressure is small, there is one tendency that indicates torque is low even at low revs.
In addition to pipe size, the length of the exhaust pipe also affects engine performance. Shorter pipes will generally result in a louder sound and faster engine response at lower revs. Conversely, longer pipes tend to produce a deeper sound and higher peak power at top revs.
The exhaust material can also affect its performance. Exhausts made from lighter materials, such as titanium or stainless steel, can reduce vehicle weight and improve acceleration.
The last components of the exhaust that affect performance are the resonator and muffler. These components serve to dampen the sound and regulate the flow of exhaust gasses. Modifications to the resonator and muffler can affect the sound characteristics of the exhaust as well as its performance.
Colin Chapman, Founder of Lotus Cars said, “The simpler, the better. Overly complex exhaust modifications can reduce efficiency and increase weight. The key is to find a balance between performance and simplicity.”
Myth or Fact?
Many believe that replacing a standard exhaust with a racing exhaust will significantly improve engine performance. However, this is not always the case. The increase in performance gained from exhaust modifications is usually only slight and is only felt at certain engine speeds.
Some factors to consider:
- Engine characteristics: Every engine has different characteristics. Exhaust modifications that are suitable for one type of engine may not necessarily be suitable for another.
- Engine settings: Exhaust modifications should ideally be accompanied by ECU (Engine Control Unit) re-tuning for optimal engine performance.
- Regulations: In many countries, including Indonesia, some regulations limit vehicle noise levels. The use of a racing exhaust that is too noisy may violate the regulations and could potentially result in penalties.
While exhaust modifications can make a difference to the sound and appearance of a vehicle, the impact on performance is not always significant. The increase in performance is usually only slight and is only felt at certain engine speeds. In addition, exhaust modifications can also affect fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.
Before deciding to modify your exhaust, it’s best to consult with an experienced mechanic. They can give you recommendations that suit your vehicle type and needs.
