exhaust backpressure loss

Some people tell me that I shouldn't replace certain parts os the stock exhaust system because if I free flow-it all I will just lose backpressure and because of this I'll lose Horsepower. Others tell me that the better the free flow the better the HP gain. What's the real deal? What certain parts of the exhaust should I change then If I shouldn't change it all?

I already installed a straight (test) pipe that replaces the catalityc converter. Is this slowing me down? Should I put tha cc back again? I'm also waiting for the Y-pipe to arrive. I already ordered it.

So what should I do to increase HP to the most?

I haven't heard too much about the test pipe. No negative or positive reviews. do you notice any change

well in the maxima.org forum. there was a posting about the test pipe. i heard from a few people that the test pipe makes u lose some low end torque and pwr. but a little noticable difference at high end. kinda no win situation. if you wanna get a free flowing cat--- thats the way to go. www.randomtechnology.com. at least you will pass expection also. i heard the test pipe can give u a problem during expection? thats the main cat. go to maxima.org forums. you will get info there. really some knowledgable people on that site.:D

This is one of the best answers I have read to this question. It is from a Honda guy - but it goes for all cars. Velocity it the key to horsepower....

<http://www.hondalife.com/articles/backpressure.htm>;

test pipes are loud and only give about 1 to 2 horses over a high flow cat. You decide.

Originally posted by Pick
test pipes are loud and only give about 1 to 2 horses over a high flow cat. You decide.

I'd rather stick with Random Tech:right:

me2 gtr. random tech is the best. thats the way to go. that article about backpressure was great knowledge and advice.

Originally posted by 99maxse
me2 gtr. random tech is the best. thats the way to go. that article about backpressure was great knowledge and advice.

How does the Random Tech feel to you?

Jcat- Having read that article, is there any posted suggestions on engine size/powerband/pipe diameter that you've come across?

custommaxima.com has some posting of there test pipe (dyno) on a 95 maxima.:D

I am no expert mind you - its just that that particular article was an eye opener for me when I first went to learn about this stuff. I would suggest you try to find someone real world who has experience with mods you are thinking about doing (on a similar vehicle of course).

Off the top of my head from what I have read 2.5" pipe is gonna be good all around if you are just tuning up your ride and 3" is really only if you are gonna go turbo or supercharger. Of course I'm sure you would get a million answers from a million different people, so I still think the best bet is to find someone who has done it - and go from there.

yea 2.5" is way to go unless ur gettin turbo or supercharged like he said. :D

true stipston. every 1 can tell you diffently, but find people who have actually have the mods. then you can decide from there.

Well then... Has anyone done this mod to a 4rth Generation Nissan Maxima that can tell me their opinion on the matter or at least know of someone who has done this or has good experience in this matter whom I could contact?

pollen go to maxima.org forums. there are a few guys who have that mod and will tell you there opinion about them. great knowledge on that forum.:D good luck in your search.

Pollen??? Well thanks I'll definitely go there and try to find an answer. Thanks! iF anyone else has any other suggestion related please post it. I'll be watching this thread for more replies.

I'll post later on what it is that i finally did, so any other person who might get to have the same problem I have in the future wiil have some fast reference on the subject

Can someone post the thread that talks about the Random Tech cat