Exhaust pipes are not a useless feature in a vehicle. However, no matter how mundane they seem, it doesn't mean they should look horrible. Are you searching for ideas to make your dull-looking exhaust more interesting? Look no further because we've researched and found ten excellent options for dual exhausts.
Dual exhausts use two mufflers to exit the engine's exhaust gases. The ideas discussed in this post can be bought ready-made or DIYed. The main characteristic of these dual exhaust ideas is either a muffler with two outlets or a split pipe with two mufflers.
Does this sound confusing or intriguing? Do you have to buy ready-made dual exhausts, or can you or a professional technician custom-make one? Either way, continue perusing as we explain the differences in detail with pictures of actual dual exhausts.
How Do Dual Exhausts Function?
Dual exhausts have two exhaust pipes. They can be connected in an H or X shape. Unlike the single exhaust system, a dual exhaust has two different sensors. The dual system helps remove exhaust gases faster.
11 Interesting Ideas For A Dual Exhaust
Many truck owners say that the sound of a powerful exhaust means a well-functioning engine. In essence, dual exhaust pipes are for aesthetics and function.
First-time truck owners who want to join in the fun of remodeling, reinstalling, or purchasing a dual exhaust for their trucks need to know what to choose.
These dual exhausts come in either the H or X shape. They can be installed in different designs and turn your truck into a beast. Without any further ado, here are some roaring dual exhaust designs.
1. Split Exhaust Via Truck Bed
The dual exhaust can be routed via the truck bed by welding the pipes together and exiting them separately through the truck bed.
2. Side By Side
Alternatively, you can have the dual exhausts routed by each side of the truck. Some of these exhausts are elaborate and give the truck a distinctive look.
3. Paired Via Truck Bed
If you don't want a split dual exhaust in the truck bed, you could request your mechanic to route them out together as a pair.
4. Bottom Opposite Directions
Another practical and straightforward design is to have the exhaust pipes at the bottom facing opposite directions. It might be cheaper and easier for your mechanic to execute.
5. Bottom Same Side
You can have the dual exhausts at the same spot at the bottom of the truck. The bottom of a raised truck is quite convenient as the exhausts are tucked away safely.
6. Bottom Pair Opposite Sides
Pimp your ride further by installing the exhausts in pairs in the opposite directions. The look is mostly for aesthetics because the two exhausts can have two exits each.
7. Top & Bottom
The dual exits can be routed in different directions if your truck allows it. One can be outwards via the truck bed or at the side, while the other remains at the bottom of the truck.
8. Double Pair Same Location
A more straightforward design can be exiting the dual exhausts with two nozzles on each exhaust in the exact location. Moreso, you can discuss with your mechanic the ideal place. Though, most often, the back panel is the best place.
9. In Front Of Rear Tire
An old-fashioned way of exiting dual exhaust in front of the rear tire seems to be making its way back. Using an old truck model, your mechanic can recreate the retro look for your vehicle. Traditionally exhausts are round, but for this design, they might be exited in a rectangular shape from the truck body for aesthetics.
10. In Front Of Both Rear Tires
The dual exhaust can be exited in front of the rear of both rear tires. One exhaust on either side will create a balanced look. The mechanic must create a round or oval exit for either exhaust via the vehicle's body. The look will give your truck some old-school vibes.
Designing An Exhaust System
Design is what results in a functional and practical yet good-looking end product. However, you don't have to be a designer to like beautiful things. Here is the nitty-gritty of designing a perfect exhaust system to keep you in the loop.
- First, understand if your design will be as robust as the existing exhaust system.
- Next, choose whether you'd like to custom make the parts or use ready-made ones.
- If you want a fully custom-made system, ensure you have the finances.
- Confirm that you have enough space for the exhaust system because metal expands.
- Ensure the design won't affect any other parts, such as fuel and oil pipes, when it reaches its highest temperature.
- Finally, use a neat mode of fusing the parts.
Even if you aren't a mechanic, this video will help you comprehend the lingo and how design can protect and enhance your vehicle's performance.
X Pipe Versus H Pipe Dual Exhaust
You might t be at a loss as to which system will work best for your vehicle. Before you settle on any of these designs, you should know the differences and similarities between X and H dual exhaust pipes.
H Pipes
These pipes might be ideal for your vehicle because they can be adjusted to fit in most trucks. H pipes lower the cylinder noises. However, they don't improve scavenging.
Have a look at this H pipe on Amazon
X Pipes
Interestingly, X pipes regulate the exhaust pulses making the scavenging better by speeding up the flow. The downside of X pipes is they don't fit most truck bodies. Your vehicle will have a high-pitched sound coming from the X exhaust pipes.
Please watch this video for an illustrious explanation of the differences between the two designs.
What Are Exhausts Pipes For?
If you are unclear on what exhaust pipes do or why they are essential in a vehicle, here's why.
An exhaust pipe helps take away or remove burnt gases from the inside of the engine; this is scavenging. The engine undergoes controlled combustion, and the fumes or emissions are dumped.
Scavenging is the evacuation of exhaust gases quickly and replacing a balanced air-fuel mixture for the next cycle. A slow or incomplete process affects the performance of the engine.
However, each manufacturer has a preferred design for their exhaust system. Depending on the system you have in your vehicle, the gas might flow one or several of the following:
- Catalytic converter
- Turbocharger
- Muffler or silencer
- Cylinder head
Dual Exhaust Systems
The design and location will dictate the system your vehicle will use. Each system can include or omit the section where the exhaust gases flow. Some exhaust systems are visible while others are not.
In most trucks, you might find one of the following exhaust systems:
- Dual Side: Here, you have two exhaust pipes exiting side-by-side. They are practical and promise high performance.
- Dual Exit: The dual exit system resembles the single one with the difference of having two exits in the vehicle. You'll find the dual exit system in sports cars and vehicles that owners want to sound powerful.
- Opposite Dual: The dual system is found in trucks carrying heavy loads, often wrapped around the wheels.
A True Dual Exhaust System
Experts differ on the authenticity of some dual exhaust systems thus, the popular terminology " a true dual exhaust system.
The features used to identify a true dual exhaust system are two catalysts, two mufflers, two exhaust manifolds, and two exhaust pipes. The separate pipes can meet at an H or X crossover pipe.
Have a look at this Magnaflow Tru-x pipe on Amazon
For visual clarity, have a look at this video.
Are Dual Exhausts Useful?
Everything in your vehicle has to serve a purpose. Thus having a dual exhaust might make you question its usefulness in your truck. Dual exhausts are helpful to the engine because they help it breathe better and perform better.
Final Thoughts
Before you settle for any of the designs discussed in this post, consult your mechanic. These designs are suitable for different trucks and must be appropriately welded to avoid leaks affecting the engine's performance.
For truck owners that love DIY projects, making a custom-made dual exhaust system might be a welcome challenge. Moreso, it could also inspire you to start a mechanical engineering career.
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