I would like to install a cat-back exhaust but do not want a muffler that is much louder than the stock ’02 Z28 muffler. I want the performance but not the extra decibels. Can anyone recommend a system that provides good performance while minimizing additional noise (I don’t mean noise in a negative way, I just don’t want to attract unwanted attention).

 

SS cars were available with some good cat-backs over the years. They were optional, so not all SSs have them, but they go by names like 'dual dual' and 'TOTL' (two out the left) there was also a single out the left. These systems were great compared to stock, but don't flow quite like some of the better aftermarket systems. You don't want sound though, and the best flow will equal lots of sound.
The WS-6 T/A package also came with a slightly better flowing muffler...
Your best bet will be to get on LS1.com and go through the classifieds looking/asking for a take-off exhaust from an SS or WS-6.
If you go aftermarket, just get a muffler. The .25" larger pipe that comes with cat-back systems doesn't make a difference. The muffler is the problem on our cars, dump the stocker and make just as much power. The stock pipes on our cars are mandrel bent stainless steel.
As for aftermarket muffler recommendations, maybe someone else can jump in with the facts on quiet ones.
I have heard that Spintech and Hooker mufflers are quiet on our cars, but I would be lying if I told you I knew for sure.
Dave

 

Thanks for the info, I'll check LS1.com

 

The Magnaflow and Hooker systems are relatively "tame". They are nice and deep, but not overly loud. The above mentioned SLP dual-dual is another quieter system.

-Mike

 

Like mentioned above, the louder the less restrictive the more power... uhhhh yeah Anywho, if you want an idea... I've personally done a new muffler right now. Pretty much opened the flow a bit, plus gave a better sound than stock. Still quiet under cruising, but NICE under WOT. What my plans consist of is the muffler (got it), nice chrome tips- maybe Borla, then a Q-Tec ??? electic cutout. That way you have a nice sound, but somewhat quite for cruising, but as soon as you find a race, just hit the button for open-cut-out and there you go

Nate

 

I went with the Flowmaster and custom 3" chrome outlets (one on each side). Pronto Muffler, Plano TX. They guys there told me the same thing re: catback - Don't waste money on the catback because you don't need it - the stock pipes are fine.

The Flowmaster is a good bit louder than stock esp at WOT. I love the sound of it, but it may be a bit more than what you are looking for. In that case I guess you can rule out the Flowmaster. I'd suggest visiting your local performance exhaust shop and see what they have to offer. Good luck!

 

Sorry, didn't think about the search engine. I'll do better next time.
Thanks for the help

 

I'm looking for a similar "sleeper" effect as well. I like a comfortable cruise level of noise, but when I romp on it I want people to listen up. That's why i've decided to go with the RSC Corsa system. It's about $795 w/o S&H or installation, but from what I've heard it's a promising system. Check it out if you're interested, they have sound samples:

www.corsaperf.com

Les

 

Actually...the SLP dual-dual and especially the 20TL flow very well and just as good as any other 3" system out there. I've seen dyno's where people lost NO horsepower switching from a LM to a dual/dual and the 20TL is known to be one of the best flowing cat-backs available for LT1's/LS1's. Sorry, but I've seen the dyno #'s to know what I'm talking about.

Mike

 

And to answer this guy's question, you probably want a Hooker or Magnaflow replacement muffler. Both are quiet at idle and cruise while only loud at full throttle. Added flow is also known to be one of their better traits too.

 

I didn't say they were bad systems, it probably couldn't be proven that any other is better because all dynos have a margin of error that these systems would fall within.
As for flow... well I know some of those numbers, but I am not here to argue with you.
Dave

 

How is the single out ss muffler compared to stock Z-28

Thanks DJ

 

The SLP dual/dual system is usually a good way to go if you are looking for an exhaust that isn't going to be to loud. I've found that the SLP two on the left system tends to have a fairly aggressive sound (especially on LT1 cars). The Corsa is a good way to go if you want the best of both worlds - quiet during normal driving but an aggressive sound when the RPMs start to climb. I run Corsa on a few different vehicles for this reason. It's nice to play and wake up the neighbors once in awhile but I like it to be kind of quiet while cruising down the highway.

Tom

 

I just purchased the Borla Cat-back exhaust, including the y-pipe. I also got the McCord PowerPlate. That way I can decide if I want it quiet or loud and can just flip a switch. I plan on mounting the switch in the center console ashtray so nothing is seen.

 

On the subject of exhaust. What about cutting out the flat part in the y-pipe and welding in round. Have a '99 Z-28 and there is a lot of pipe besides the Y-Pipe unlike '00 up. Hear the flat spot was a major problem. Thanks DJ