ok it started just a little bit and now it seems to get worse and worse. im backfiring when its in gear and im slowing down (off the throttle) but it keeps happening more and more. i have a ravin catback and a gutted cat. why would it be doing this? what are the most common problems?

Backfiring is usually caused by timing problems. Or a exhaust/intake valve could be stuck opened or closed. Or an ignition problem.

I'd check the timing with a timing light first and go from there.

where should i set my timing for best performance and to stop that backfire?

With the ESC (or maybe the EST) wire disconnected (Located on by the AC/heater box it is a 1 prong connection) your timing on a stock lo3 is 0 degrees. If you run good gas you can set it around 6 with good results. Definetly shouldn't backfire.

Sounds like either your distributor has moved alot or your timing chain has stretched and jumped a few teeth.

If it keeps getting worse and worse, I would say its an exhaust leak somewhere down from the manifolds or headers. Mine did it real bad w/ the stock exhaust system on it. Ends up the pipe was cracking apart at the seam bigger and bigger, causeing the warm exhaust to mix w/ the cooler outer air, and Bang... or pop or whatever...

Might check for leaks...

If not that then possible it could be the timing.

yeah make sure you have no exhaust leaks, when my collectors get loose and i slam it down in gear BANG! tighten the bolts, no more

Backfiring is an improperly timed firing event, blowing combustion gases out the intake and carb - resulting in a loud gunshot type noise.

Afterfire, is combustion inside the exhaust system. It creates the popping noise in the exhaust on decel. Its created from extra fuel being ignited by the extremely hot exhaust. But, it needs air to ignite. Usually that extra air comes from an exhaust leak.

well i just took out my AIR equiptment and checked for any leakage but i didnt notice any exhaust leaks..........im thinking my timing might be off because another member was backfiring and deleted his AIR ayatem and it stopped. probably because removing the AIR system leans out the car just a little bit. ill see if this AIR deletion stops the backfiring and then ill know its timing for sure. either way i have to check my timing