Standard Silverado Exhaust Systems & How to Upgrade

Silverado exhaust systems have hardly changed across generations and even across sub-models, the variations are limited to pipe diameter. The factory routing formula almost always remains the same unless dual pipes are in place. In factory form, the exhaust system begins with the manifolds. These manifolds are connected to a Y-pipe that contains the catalytic converters. From there the exhaust is sent down the passenger side of the vehicle where it exits at the rear. In sub models like the high country or SS, you’ll find a dual exhaust system. The system remains basically the same until it reaches the end of the Y-pipe. Here, the exhaust splits in two, though it still follows the passenger side until it reaches the rear where an exit point can be found on the driver and passenger sides of the vehicle.

Aftermarket auto parts retailers will tell you it’s far from uncommon for Silverado owners to rush in the doors and purchase an aftermarket exhaust system for their truck. Many people will automatically associate an aftermarket exhaust system with the increased sound quality, but aftermarket exhaust systems deliver on multiple fronts making them an upgrade worth every penny.

Increased Lifespan: Perhaps the most overlooked advantage of an aftermarket exhaust system is the increased lifespan. Many manufacturers will offer systems constructed of aluminized steel which will have about the same lifespan of the factory system. Stainless steel kits are also widely available. Stainless exhaust systems are highly resistant to corrosion and in many cases can last the life of the vehicle. It’s more expensive on the initial investment but beats the overall expenses of the repairs associated with aluminized steel.

Increased Sound Quality: Most aftermarket exhaust systems will use wider pipes and mufflers designed to enhance sound quality. This is the only personal touch immediately noticeable with an aftermarket exhaust system and is the selling point for many buyers.

Increased Horsepower: Sound quality isn’t the only feature impacted by using wider pipes and aftermarket mufflers. These features along with improved routing will work to increase the airflow of the system. By allowing exhaust to flow freely, horsepower and torque increases will be had.

When searching for exhaust systems, you will find two exit types are available: side exit and rear exit. The choice of the two will mainly rely on personal taste and what look is more appealing to you. However, keep in mind a rear exit exhaust does extend to the rear bumper and can be damaged when the vehicle sits at extreme angles.

The single most restrictive part of an exhaust system may be the catalytic converters. These units are in place to reduce the number of harmful gases produced by the engine that are released into the atmosphere. The catalyst within is what can harm airflow and a considerable amount of power can be had from removing or replacing them with high flow units.

Where they are Located: All Silverado’s since the beginning of their production in 1999 have come factory equipped with catalytic converters. The catalytic converters can be found on the exhaust system on the Y-pipes right after the factory exhaust headers on an original equipment exhaust.

Why Keep or Ditch: Deleting a catalytic converter will result in the most power possible in terms of making modifications to this part of the exhaust. However, doing so will impede the vehicle from being considered street legal. For those with racing or off-road applications, deleting the cats is a wise idea. For those who intend to keep their Silverado as a street driven vehicle, the cats must remain in place. However, high flow catalytic converters are an option for those chasing additional power.

From the factory, Silverado’s are equipped with exhaust manifolds. Manifolds can be quite restrictive to airflow. They use a very basic cast iron design that mirrors each port so air can flow just well enough to enter the exhaust system. Swapping to aftermarket headers is a great way to improve the rate of flow and increase power output.

Shorty Headers vs Long Tube Headers: Headers arrive in a variety of shapes and sizes but there are two primary options on the market for Silverado owners: shorty and long tube headers. Shorty headers are designed to bring the benefits of flow to the exhaust but will bolt directly in place of the factory manifolds. Power gains can be made with shorty headers but not nearly as much as will be had with long tube headers. The drawback to long tube headers is the exhaust will need to be modified for fitment and some may only be used for applications not driven on the street.

Many will want to save a few dollars and reap the rewards of an aftermarket exhaust system while only investing in a minimal number of upgrades. While benefits are to be had with the use of only individual modifications, they cannot stack up to upgrading the entire system.

Header + Cat Back vs Muffler Swap: For those interested in power gains and increased sound quality, it may seem practical to invest only in aftermarket mufflers. While the addition of aftermarket mufflers to an otherwise factory exhaust system will result in noticeable changes, but are minimal at best. By paring an aftermarket exhaust system with headers, the rate of flow provided can dramatically increase power and the free-flowing nature of the exhaust will produce the best note possible.