Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Zetec Performance Zetec Mystique Exhaust Questions

OK, so here's the situation. My factory exhaust is pretty much shot at this point, and I'm due for inspection in March. I've been looking through the boards here and I'm thinking about fabricating my own exhaust system to replace it. Hopefully someone can answer the questions I'm left with after searching.

First of all, what is the stock pipe diameter that I have now? I measured 1.75" OD, can anyone confirm?

Second, where can I buy a flange to weld on to the front end? Do they even sell these individually?

Third, I have a Ractive straight-through muffler to stick on the back end, but I'm not sure if this will bring the noise level down enough. Would it be best to throw some kind of resonator in there where the factory intermediate muffler is?

Thanks in advance. I'm trying to figure out the best way to do this.

1 3/4" is correct. You are better off buying a full exhaust... SVT exhausts are great, and they are stainless steel as well.

I disagree, drive your car to a competent exauhst shop and they can fab you one for less than you think. Shop around though. Read the sticky at the top of the Zetec performance forum and you will see many good options.

If you have a pipe bender and good welding skills you could fab your own but...

The used SVT exuahst is good if you can get it for free or real cheap but I still don't think it's best for the 4cyl.

I have access to all the equipment and welding is no problem for me. I understand that the SVT exhaust is good but if I fabricate my own I'll definitely use stainless pipe anyway.

At this point I'm mainly concerned with finding the flange that fits, and about the noise factor. I'm going for a deep sound that isn't too obnoxious. Anyone else have experience with Ractive mufflers?

EDIT: I have a Ractive MT603 with the silencer insert. I would use the silencer if I had to but it looks fairly restrictive.

I didn't realize a SVT exhaust would fit a Zetec?
Must need some fab work.

Yeah, less than a foot of pipe extra has to be welded in.

2.25" exhaust, magnaflow muffler where the factory resonator is, to a nice tip. No nonsense and will give the best power on your N/A car.

mandrel bent is better. gives smooother flow