Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications General Mods Diff between mandrel bent vs. crush bent

I am looking at this exhaust system for my car and the guy that I might get it done by said he would modify my exhaust system like so:

"Ok, my system replaces everything from after the main catalytic converter back. It uses a single pipe in and dual pipe outlet muffler ? Running 2 (2.25?) pipes to the bumper exits. I am selling the system ? Hand built and crush bent (Not mandrel bent) for $350.00 complete. "

What is Crush Bent and Mandrel Bent?
Which is better and why?

Thanks
Derek

PS: Is this a good system?

Crush bent is as it sounds. A piece of pipe is pressed against a hydraulic elbow and crushed to form a specific angle.

A 90 degree crush bent 2.5" pipe is under 2.1" I.D. at the bend. This is a serious loss of performance.

Mandrel bending retains the inner diameter & shape.
A 90 degree mandrel bent 2.5" pipe is a bit over 2.4" I.D. at the bend. A significant difference in airflow and turbulence.

Demon, I applaud your restraint (die Search Nazi's ) and your answer. Thaking you on behalf of the new guy who has know idea what can of worms has just been avoided...........

LMAO

Mark

Derek, The CEG boards have a long and detailed history. Most topics have been beat to death several times, so the search feature really is a great resource. Welcome to the CEG!

I agree with Demon and Trapps. 2.5" crushed bends is about as effective as stock WITH the resonator. Sure you might get more rumble sound with the single, centrally located muffler, but that's about it. 2.5" mandrel bent would be better because the bends would still be 2.5" as opposed to 2.1"-ish.

The only gains I see over a stock system is if you have a Zetec.

donde esta cardoc?

Might "this guy" have a name?

Cardoc is the person I was talking to. His system sounds a lot better than the Brullen. (atleast the soundfiles do) Am I right or wrong?

Derek

Derek,

Gator is only being fecetious, he knew exactly who you were referring to, Cardoc has been the subject of numerous discussions, both here at the CEG and over at fordcontour.org, and none of them do I think any of us wish to re-hash.

Anyway,
here is my educated $0.02
The exhaust cardoc sells can be duplicated by almost any local muffler shop for very little money. It is of common muffler shop piping, with common muffler shop crush bends, and a similar muffler can be had at any shop.

If this is what you want, and you want it pre-made, go for it, but IMHO, my money is far better spent elsewhere.

How would you do it up?

I want a deep, throaty exhaust!

Derek

The Brullen soundclip doesn't do the catback justice! It sounds so much better in person, especially on my car when I first step on the gas. I'm going to video tape it sometimes this week and post it, wait and see.