I am about to take my car in to have the exhaust worked on. What are my best options that work with my car? I don't need loud..mostly looking to increase performance or remain stock. Also not looking to break the bank.

1986 Trans Am
350 TBI
Dual exhaust

 

high flowing muffler (Magnaflow is the quietest IMO), that may bring you a little performance but you probably wont feel it. Headers are the only exhaust option that would bring you any performance you can feel. and that all depends on your budget, 7 years ago i bought Hooker Headers for about 275 (i think) and then the Y-pipe for about 160. but if youre not putting them on, you may be paying a bit of coin for a shop to put them on.

 

I want to do more..I just don't have experience beyond doing an oil change. Plus I lack many of the tools I need. I've had quotes from a shop for a around 250 just to replace what was needed and install a new muffler. I guess if I don't plan to race it then that is a better option than me trying to do it and taking a lot more time.

 

If you're looking for some more power while staying fairly quiet, check out what the other guy said. Also, look to increase the diameter of the pipes, but to no more than 3", and with mandrel bends. Any decent cat-back that's worth it's price will have mandrel bends instead of compression bends. The great thing about doing exhaust work is that you don't need much more than a few wrenches and a hacksaw, and if you're already doing oil changes than you should be able to manage that. Installing headers when the car retains it's emissions can be tricky, but if you follow the directions you should be fine. I'd also recommend a good, high flow cat. I've used a Magnaflow before with good results, and assuming the one on your car is original it's probably time to replace it. Notice, I didn't say remove. Headers, slightly bigger pipes, high flow cat, and a Magnaflow muffler shouldn't be too much louder than stock, and you should pick up some decent power gains. If you do all the work yourself, you will only be out the price of the parts and some time.