[TommyW]

I know a lot of you have removed the cat. converters on your Z'x and kept the stock exhaust. Any comments on the performance afterward? I got my Z with a nearly new exhaust on it, however was thinking of doing away with the converter if it will help increase performance, and I figured while the car was still up in the air, I would do it now if it helps.

 

[gannman]

I did this to my 79 280ZX and loved the result. a better sound emanates from the muffler, and there seems to be better reaction time from the engine. I noticed the diff as soon as i drove it after the minor procedure. Another guy i know with a 300ZXT did it as well, and recommends it highly. He runs a straight pipe exhaust (says that the turbines on the turbo deaden the noise-- i would've never known there was no muffler unless he had told me!). The only problem i've heard of that might occur is damage to the valves, but that's with NO pipes coming straight off of headers/ex manifold.

weylin
1979 280ZX

 

[Skip81ZX]

As long as it isnt illegal where you are, go on ahead and do it. I did the same procedure to my 81 na. Nothing but priases. What I did: Cut out the cat, and put a 28" cherry bomb in its place. I've noticed the difference in power big time. With the cherry bomb further up the pipeline, it sounds a bit more quiet and tame than the same setup with the cherry bomb at the end where the muffler was (as is the case on my '80)....while letting me have the power I want.

.Skip

 

[silver77280z]

I replaced the entire exhast system including the headers. I am now running straight pipe with a dynomax muffler. I noticed a lot more power and a more responsive feel from the engine. I only have one complaint. I now have an exhast smell that fill the car. It never smelt before i did the system and i have had it checked for leaks. Without the cat its not burning as clean and i can smell it.