Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Duratec Performance Exhaust and intake

Hey, i heard that changing you exhaust system gives a bit more power and so does changing the intake system. Now, is it true that if you change both you will get a significant increase (15-20 hp). To me, it makes sense that if you increase the intake airflow and the exhaust air flow, the air flows in and out faster than if only one mod was done (wow, what a concept!!!) but does it really make that much of a difference without some kind of forced induction? And if it's worth it, which parts should I go for? I keep seeing kits for a SVT contour but I have a '98 Contour GL V6 sport and can I use the parts with my car without any bad things happening. Like adding a y pipe from a cat back system and a cold air intake. Please lemme know, thanks in advance.

wow well I suggest in the future to use the search feature....this topic has been gone over probably 100 times by now.


Anyhow to your answers:

If you go with a good size intake w/heatshield, optomize TB, and then get a cat-back system you will probably come close to gaining 15 hp at the crank.

Anyhow I would start with optomizing your TB (how to is listed on the site) and then get an intake (open filter, K&N or AFE come to mind as good ones, no reverse cone). Make sure you get a filter that is will flow enough CFM (others on here will help you with that).

As far as exhausts are concerned:
Many catbacks available for the contour and it also depends on whether you want duals or single.


Bnoon has a very simple custom exhaust recipe that you could follow for true duals.

2.0" or 2.25" true duals: dual pipes and cats all the way back with mandrel bends (available from JC whitney) and then resonate to taste (Magnaflow, Flowmaster 40 series, dynomax are some good mufflers).

2.0" pipe for Zetec and duratec naturally aspired
2.25" for 3L

True duals will give you the most power for a dual setup, and probably biggest gains overall.