ksrammstein

Is it really worth the extra money for a stainless cat back? About how long will the aluminum pipe last assuming no snow or salt and minimum rain?

LAFireboyd

iTrader: (3)

I'm in CA, so I meet ALL of your conditions, lol. My entire exhaust is still the original factory system, and it's still in excellent condition after 17 years and 234,000 miles. Still running my original O2 sensor, too, and still passing emissions testing.

So if you're still running your original system after 20 years, then I guess you have your answer.

Oops, I guess I should've read the mods in your signature. I see you're not running your original exhaust.

rich3114

I have all stainless pipes and mufflers, just so I never have to replace them, but I plan on keeping my car until it falls to pieces, and don't ever want to replace the exhaust. It all depends on what you want. If you think you "might" change your exhaust at all, then it's not worth it. If you want something to put on, and never worry about again, then in my opinion, it's worth the extra expense. My aluminum pipe lasted 13 years with no sand and salt, and rusted through at the tailpipes first.

DJP87Z28

Spend the extra money for a Stainless Steel Catback Exhaust, it will last the life of the car.

ShiftyCapone

iTrader: (7)

This is true. Many new cars come with stainless systems from the factory. Part of the exhaust igasses contain sulfuric acid which is the main cause for a rotting exahust. Sure there is some surface rust on the outside from the elements but the main cause is the acid. The combustion process is much cleaner now and you won't see it happen as fast, but was a serious problem in the 70's and 80's.

subzero

stainless is really the best option and considering the price on some of the stainless kits compared to the aluminized systems,it is a no brainer to just get a stainless cat back