What you need to know about the new Tundra's exhaust.
Toyota made a fast truck when they resdesigned the new Tundra. The 5.7L V8 has 381 hp, making it a good truck for hauling and towing. But a lot of people will tell you that you should modify the factory exhaust system. You should only consider it after you've learned the facts.
The new Toyota Tundra comes with an excellent set of exhaust manifolds. They are made of stainless steel, so they're lighter than cast iron and highly rust resistant. They're also an "equal-length" tube design, a feature you usually only find on expensive aftermarket headers. Finally, they have a 4 into 2 into 1 design, which is the most efficient way to remove exhaust gas quickly. This is one part of the exhaust that doesn't need changed.
Next we have the catalytic converters. These legally required emissions control devices are often accused of restricting a vehicle's exhaust, but in the new Tundra that's not the case. They are efficient and they benefit the environment, so they're definitely off limits.
After the catalytic converters, the exhaust gases from each side of the motor cool somewhat and meet-up at the muffler. Again, the factory system is pretty good. You won?t see a significant hp and torque gain by replacing the factory muffler (3-5hp, 5-10ft-lbs at the most), but you will HEAR the truck better. The rumble that you'll hear if you do this is intoxicating, but there are about a hundred different mufflers to choose from to help you get the rumble you want. TRD, Borla, Flowmaster, Gibson, Edelbrock, Magnaflow, etc all offer quality products. While brand is important, it?s more important to know what you want.
First of all, find out if the muffler you like is going to have any "exhaust drone". Exhaust drone refers to the sound of the engine running while your driving at constant speed, like on the highway. Many people prefer not to have any drone, but others are willing to deal with some drone if it gets them a little more power. Finding out if the muffler you like is going to drone is easy, ask the people at the local muffler shops as well as the websites www.tundraheadquarters.com and www.tundrasolutions.com.
Second, in terms of noise, how much can you stand. If it's too loud, your neighbors will be awake when you start your truck. If it's too quite, you won't be able to hear your exhaust unless under hard acceleration. Most mufflers aren't too loud, but to make sure you avoid the loud mufflers, stay away from descriptions that mention "racing only" or "glasspack".
Third -- single or dual exhaust? Typically, it's best to match the factory setup. On the new Tundra, that would be a single exhaust. However, if you change exhaust and go with a dual, it's not a big deal. Don't choose a dual setup because you think it will be more powerful -- it won't. It will be the same or even less. The dual exhaust is best in terms of sound and looks.
Last, what is the best material for your muffler? While stainless steel is lightweight and resistant to rust, a lot of people that live in dry climates don't need it. Standard galvanized or aluminized steel is fine. However, if your climate is wet or near saltwater stainless steel is an excellent choice.
About the author: Jason Lancaster has worked in the auto business and with the Toyota Tundra for the better part of a decade. Get more Tundra Info at his website, www.tundraheadquarters.com.
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