Perhaps, I've searched too much because the answers to my questions have become cloudy. I am currently working on TomP's tune-up list and please don't advise me to get a different engine. I'm not gonna do that at this time. Thanks for reading this thread.

My stock exhaust ('86 Firebird 2.8L MPFI) is in need of replacement. It's rusty and I'm tired of repairing leaks.

I plan on installing headers. I understand that both Pace Setter and PF&E have headers available.
From my reading I have gathered that the Pace Setter headers require their special Y-Pipe. Correct me if I'm wrong.
Here's the question:Why should I choose one over the other? (I am in Oregon btw)

What are my options for complete exhaust systems?

I understand that the Flowmaster 80, though listed for V8, will fit on my 2.8L V6. The sticky at the top of the forum says the full dynamax catback is popular for the money and recommends 2.5".
The questions:What are other popular exhaust systems for my V6? Are there any issues regarding fitting these exhaust systems to the above headers?

Thank you, thank you for answering these questions...again.

 

I am not sure, but don't the PF&E headers require a custom y-pipe as well? (Also, their y-pipe isn't available right now is it?)

My exhaust is getting annoying too, I have leaks and don't really feel like trying to track them down (and I don't want to take it to a shop - rather do any work myself). Some headers and a matching y-pipe seem attractive. The PaceSetter set seems like it would be nice because it'll come with both headers and a y-pipe made to fit, and, as far as I can tell (and Dale in this other thread: https://www.thirdgen.org/techbb2/sho...hreadid=235112) the y-pipe should end right where the stock y-pipe ends and a stock-style cat should be able to clamp to it. I really like this because I will be able to put the headers and y-pipe on, a new cat (already have that) and hook my existing Dynomax cat-back up to the cat. Then I won't have any more leaks, all new pipes, and I won't have to go somewhere to have any welding done. And from the sounds of it, you are looking to do just about the same thing.

Um, anyhow, I don't think that answered your questions directly, so I'll try this:

1.) The Dynomax cat-back does come highly recommended around here, and for good reason. I bought one for my '89 RS after so many people recommended it, and I love it! The car sounds so good. That's all I can tell ya about that. There are folks around here that have the Flowmaster exhaust that could tell you about it. I've never heard it.
2.) Right now, I don't know of any issues fitting these exhaust systems to the PS headers. Like I said above, as long as that y-pipe will mount to a stock or replacement cat, then yes, the PS setup will fit.

 

ok, PF&E has headers and y-pipes available. you do need their y-pipe to run their headers. the y-pipe go right to where your cat is stock. i would recommend upgrading the cat to a 2.5" if you are required to have a cat. then, any catback setup will bolt up. even if it says it is for the v8 cars, just make sure its for the correct year. you would want 2.5" there also unless you plan to go boosted or a heavily built N/A motor. i have the flowmaster and really like it. however, i have an old set of hooker super comp headers to 'tune' the exhaust and a nice cam to give it a nice lope. the pacesetter headers are not available yet but should be before too many more months and you will need to get their y-pipe to go with those headers. anymore questions, just let us know.

 

The difference between the 2 is about $100-150 or so.
A Reputiable company (Pace Setter) That has a good name for itself and makes an outstanding product. Includes EVERYTHING for install, 50 State legal and just a flat out a better looking design.

PF&E, never heard of them before... Claim to make all kinds of things... again never heard of before. Very basic header design. The "Y" Pipe (last I heard) was an expensive option, on top of the price of the headers. Not 50 State legal, so yes you can get a ticket if a cop sees them reguardless of local smog inspections.

I have been informed of the reguardless ticket by SEVERAL State Troopers, and the DA's office. They can give it to you. And it is not cheap. Most states have a 500-1500 fine for illegal modifacation of EPA control equipment. Think about it.

As fas as Cat backs... dynomax is really the only option, because most the V8 CB's are 2.75"-3". No no fitment issues. Just be prepared to unhinge the rear end to get that damn crossover pipe in/and over the axle. That's the biggest pain in the whole install.

 

my 'crossover' pipe was cut and had a factory slip connection right by the axle.

 

PF&E has a great reputation, but mostly in MI and the surrounding states due to the fact that they have not been on the internet as of yet. When they get their website up and running i'm sure that they will become nationally renowned. If you do your homework you will find out that they have been making prototype headers for the auto manufacturers and some serious race teams.

As for the cat back question... DO NOT go with Flowmaster with headers. It sounds like total @ss.

 

89 RS 2.8L v6:

non-stock y-pipe
3" cat
+3" cat back
---------------
awesome sound!!!

 

i've got a flowmaster with headers, i like it.