Cat-back defined. A Tundra OE system typically consist of a manifold, a catalytic converter, a series of pipes, a muffler, and an exhaust tip all designed to evacuate the hot exhaust gases from the engine. Most or all of these system parts will need to be replaced at some point over the lifetime of the truck. There are many aftermarket manufactures that make replacement parts for some or all of the exhaust system components.
Over the years, the term cat-back system has become one of the most confusing and misunderstood term in the aftermarket exhaust system lingo. However, in reality, it is actually a very uncomplicated term. In most American made cars, there is a special device in the exhaust system called a catalytic converter that resides between the manifold and mufflers. This catalytic converter is designed to remove harmful chemicals from the exhaust steam by converting them into less harmful by-products. It is illegal to drive a car without a catalytic converter in the exhaust system and the converters are required by law in all 50 states.
In today's marketplace, the term "cat-back system" is used to describe all those parts of the exhaust system from the outlet of the catalytic converter (aka "Cat") back to the exhaust system tip including all pipes, one or more mufflers and the exhaust tips. When the time comes to replace your exhaust system or components, there are many models and styles of this type system to choices from. While some vehicle owners may simply chose to go to a dealership to buy an exact OE replacement, there are others who are looking to upgrade their exhaust system beyond the stock exhaust system. These owners are typically more interested in increased power, a deeper sound, a more durable, longer lasting system and maybe even a little eye candy to dress up their trucks.
The primo exhaust system is usually manufactured from stainless steel and come with a lifetime warranty. These systems typically include mufflers that offer less restriction to exhaust flow because of their internal design and reduction in backpressure. These mufflers allow the vehicle to regain some of the lost horsepower experienced with a stock muffler. Some of these mufflers are referred to as "glasspacks" and some use"straight through" designs. There are also systems that lower the sound frequency and give the exhaust system a deep sound that is not normally associated with typical four or six cylinder engine. And for those who like to "dress their rides to impress" there are systems that come with a giant tail pipe tip - it may not have any value-add performance wise to your exhaust system but it sure does looks impressive.
As with any purchase, you want to shop around and look for those brands that offer some or all of the features you want. Visit us at www.tundrapower.com <http://www.tundrapower.com> to see all of our exhaust systems for your Tundra 5.7 V8 and other engine power plants.
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