Need some input on Y pipes???

[CT77]

Here's my deal...I have a '02 SS that I recently put a GMMG catback on. My questions are, is it worth putting an aftermarket Y pipe on? I have stock manifolds and cats and intend to leave it that way. No plans for headers now, or probably ever. The factory Y is crushed on the one side, yet some say still flows well. Does an aftermarket Y change the tone? I love the way my GMMG sounds, but it wouldn't hurt my feelings if it was a bit louder. Also, may be a dumb question, but do the aftermarket Y's bolt up to the factory cats, or do they bolt to the manifold? I've researched quite a bit on LS1tech, but could never find a straight answer. Everybody just says it's dumb and a waste of money. Maybe that's true, but was hoping for some honest opinions on here. My goals, a touch more HP, a little more sound and a better looking Y. Any recommendations on what pipe to get (if it's worth it)? Trying to keep the cost to a minimum. Thanks!

[hoogiesngrinderz]

I haven't seen an aftermarket y-pipe for stock manifolds/cats that would warrant the cost. Likely a minimal change in exhaust note.

SLP made one, Hawks has one listed, I'm sure there are others. $200 + shipping for the one at Hawks
http://www.hawksthirdgenparts.com/pr...fication).html

[birdie2000]

Without replacing or removing the factory cats I can't imagine it making any difference at all to the sound. Power gains, if any, would be negligible IMHO.

While I'm generally pro-cat for various reasons, it sounds like removing your cats would accomplish your goals best and would be much cheaper.

[farmington]

don't know if removing your cats will give you the nasty raspy sound exhaust without headers. I say leave well enough alone.

[CT77]

don't know if removing your cats will give you the nasty raspy sound exhaust without headers. I say leave well enough alone.

No, I would be keeping the factory cats and manifolds. After more research today, I see the SLP Y mounts to the factory cats. That's what I'm looking for. Just not sure it's worth the $200... Found a guy with a brand new one, never installed, just went a different route. He wants $150 plus shipping.

[hoogiesngrinderz]

Not worth the cost in my book. You're bottle necked at the manifolds and cats, anything after will not help. Muffler (or lack thereof - GMMG) is the best you're going to get.

[1BADAIR]

I had the slp one long ago. Had the loudmouth then put the Y on. Changed the sound for the better when I did that

[hoogiesngrinderz]

I had the slp one long ago. Had the loudmouth then put the Y on. Changed the sound for the better when I did that

Good to hear actual experience. Was it worth the cost? I didn't think the factory y was all that restrictive.

I guess I'll eat my words. Then again, I personally wouldn't spend the money just for a better exhaust note and minimal performance enhancement.

[MORNINGSTAR2101]

personally, im not a fan of anything slp, really.. . .so, id say stick with what you have. if you dont have any plans to do headers or any other performance mods, theres really no reason to switch that piece out.

[CT77]

Thanks for the input guys. I've decided to keep the factory flattened Y. I've got better things to drop $200 on. For the price, time, minimal gains and possible rattles, I'll avoid it. I've already got a sweet slam from underneath when I get on it or hit a decent bump from the GMMG I've got to figure out. Think it's hitting the passenger floor somewhere. I've adjusted it and tightened the clamps a few time with no luck. There needs to be one more support bracket under there for these aftermarket exhausts. Thanks again for the opinions.