I´m in the process of designing a new exhaust system and it looks like a lot of people in the US are using an X-pipe (cross pipe) for dual exhaust systems. I´ve seen comments like the "X" will equalize pressure between the cylinder banks resulting in more hp´s. I´m going to use 3" tubes all the way (incl. cats). However, to my understanding the X-pipe will act as a restriction since the cross sectional area where the pipe meets (the "X") will be a lot smaller than the area of the two 3" tubes. A H-pipe looks to me to be less restrictive (even though most opinions on the internet seems to be in favour for the X-pipe) . Am I missing something here?

Thanks
Goran

 

What setup is this exhaust going on?

 

Actually a Corvette 1990 but since this forum seems to attract a lot of knowledgeable people I posted here. Engine specs: 381cui SBC gen1 (L98) built for boost, S-trim blower, superram intake, Bret Bauer Blower cam, Exotic Muscle headers, Random tech metal matrix bullit cats, Flowmaster 40´s and 6-speed ZF.

 

Yes! The X pipe is better than a H pipe. A piston engine sends its exhust towards the tail pipe in pulses rather than constant flow like a fan would. The X pipe enables the pulse to exit in a more effiecient orderly fashion than just dual pipes. A H pipes only advantage is it is simpler to fab on some cars. A vettes drive shaft makes a x pipe very easy to make. I had the pleasure of back to back runs in a 198? corvette with and with out the x pipe. X pipe worth 15 ft pounds gain through out the power curve and MUCH improved exhaust sound.