Whats going on guys? Quite the active forum here. Lots of j-body supporters. Anyways, I've got questions needing answers.

Whats the best route to go for an exhaust setup? Should I get a pre-made one like a magnaflow or should I source my parts and build my own?
Whats your thoughts on the pre mades? thoughts on building your own? Any recommendations? Emissions problems (should I really ask about this if i'm really trying to build my own)?

I'm interested in hearing what you all have to say!

I need an adultier adult.

Pre-built direct bolt in kits are convenient for a driveway/garage install, but cost big time. Going custom and buying mandrel pieces for your bends may cost just as much in the end unless you can install and weld. Choosing your own muffler and tip is always a plus to a custom exhaust if you know what sound you want. Replacing the entire exhaust is worth it if your system is rusted up, but if not, you may be able to save a few bucks replacing muffler/tip, and catalytic converter and possibly adding a header. Your tubing size will depend on your performance goal. If you plan to supercharge and such, maybe 2.5" will be what you want. On a N/A motor, 2.25" is just fine. As long as there is a catalytic converter, no emissions worries here.


'03 LS Sport 5spd, Amsoil fluids, Vibrant cat-back, 5% 3M color stable tint, Z24 trunk lid

So if I did something like this:

http://www.carid.com/universal-exhaust-systems/spec-d-universal-muffler-10984879.html?CAWELAID=120019800001697260&nid=PLA&cagpspn=pla&gclid=CJb5k4Hr3boCFaZcMgodnksAvQ

http://www.mandrelexhaustsystems.com/servlet/the-235/95-dsh-05-CHEVY-CAVALIER--fdsh-/Detail (get stainless steel)

http://www.mandrelexhaustsystems.com/servlet/the-148/ADD-ON--dsh--RESONATOR/Detail (believe I need this)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Tsudo-02-05-Pontiac-Sunfire-2-2L-Ecotec-header-/110979094134 (unless you have a better opinion on an exhaust header)

I'm still fresh to tuning cars so I'm just blind firing. But I'm trying to do it right so nothing comes out wrong.

Also, Does anyone know where I can get a Getrag f23 Tranny or a possibility on what it will take to convert an automatic to manual?

I need an adultier adult.

My .02, build your own. I did 3" all the way from the turbo back with magnaflow cat and borla muffler and a flex pipe and custom mounting done by the exhaust shop. Total cost me about $600 and a day at the exhaust shop. I guess rates will vary, but I got exactly what I wanted for less than a Magnaflow bolt on. Then again, my brother bought a $120 cat back for his car and it performs pretty well and sounds awesome. Time will tell how long it will last though lol.



2004 Cavalier Sedan

Lol nothing wrong with that. As long as it fit in there and he likes the sound. It sounds like doing my own would be the way to go. I just need to take the time to get it all worked out. Thanks for the info!

I need an adultier adult.