tstirman

I'm finally upgrading my 2.3L FI fox to a carbed 5.0 with some minor mods and extensive custom rebuilds, but I am unsure of the exhaust system that I have in mind. I know I can pick up a decent cat back system with headers, x-pipe and all for around $700 or so, but I am looking to do everything custom, to squeeze a bit more performance out of it, for a little less $$$.

My question is this: Are straight pipes with universal cats legal in the state of Texas? Meaning, if I were to simply run straight exhaust pipe from the headers to the back of the car, with a cat in the middle and no actual muffler or x/h-pipes undercar, is there a chance that it would pass inspection? If not, what kind of additions would need to be made to keep the car street legal?

Edit: Would it even be beneficial for me to do this? Or should I just go for the off-road x-pipe and a cat back system?

ddmsgtr1

I don't live in Texas, but in Jersey it's pretty strict. What I can tell you is that most states are going to require you to have convertters and some sort of muffler. You can get a straight-thru style muffler, like and slp lm1, or dynomax race bullets, but I don't see most inspections passing you with straight pipes.

tstirman

You know, the more I look into it, I think you're right. I guess I'm gonna go with the x-pipe/cat back system. It'll probably sound better, too!

Thanks for that advice!