Last month i failed inspection for an 'exhaust leak' ... kind of aggravating because he failed me just based on hearing the leak, didn't even test emissions.
Well annoyance aside, this pushed me further towards getting a new exhaust. I don't have a wealth of knowledge about the parts and part-names..but i have been trying to read up on the sticky in this forum and my top personal choice is the cta-motorsports setup#1..(surprisingly also the most expensive $655 " 2 1/2" stainless steel pipe, Magnaflow 14616 Mirror Finish muffler, dual Magnaflow 14416 mufflers, and dual 4" polished rolled stainless steel tips. ")

i was thinking this would solve my problem and be a great upgrade...then i got thinking the leak could easily be before the cats, and cat-back exhaust wouldnt fix this. this got me thinking i should throw on a y-pipe while im at it. ( i have yet to pinpoint the leak but i noticed a 'connection point' about in-line with the drivers footwell, was very rusted...more so than further back.)

sorry about talking so much. but im looking for advice/suggestions on what you think i should do/replace in my situation. cat-back i think i am decided (from what ive seen on the sticky-page options) but otherwise..like the y-pipe or anything else i might need... i am open to anything. cheaper the better price-wise (luckily ill have a bit of bday money) im not doing all this to pass inspection btw, ive been looking for an upgrade for a while now(since my tips were cheapy-done)

thanks in advance
.Snipey

And while you're doing the y-pipe, what if you find the leak is really by the pre-cats... So let's get headers too!! Welcome to the slippery slope of rationalizing your mod habit-in-development. Like if you need to be able to accelerate after toll stops on the Mass Pike: TURBO TIME!!

Back on topic: Do you not have SOME way to get a handle on where the leak is? You're talking about installing an almost entire new exhaust to fix A leak SOMEWHERE? I wish I had your discretionary bucks to drop that quickly. Do you have any CELs that might flunk your car on emissions? Can't fix those when you're flat broke from buying a whole new exhaust.

Meanwhile, in terms of bang for the buck, don't overlook the tru bends systems for a cat back. You still have input on a bunch of resonators and mufflers for the sound you want while NOT paying as much as possible.

Have a friend sit in the car after it's warmed up and revv it while you're half under the car (off jack stands btw) and glide your hand around. If there's a minor leak you will feel it. If there's a BIG leak, you will see it. There will be black soot collecting on the ground.

Hope that helps. Definately find out where the leak is before you go replacing stuff (but a completely new exhaust system doesn't hurt!! )

Quote:

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i was thinking this would solve my problem and be a great upgrade...
im not doing all this to pass inspection btw, ive been looking for an upgrade for a while now(since my tips were cheapy-done) *previous owner*

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been planning on a overhauling the exhaust system. this just pushes me in the direction a little earlier than planned. figured i might as well kill a few birds with 1 stone.

oh, and i have no CEL's causing me to fail inspection. nothing on the paperwork shows me failing inspection except the guys handwriting saying i have an exhaust leak. (he never emission checked it, ear-failed it )