The Exhaust System for Ford F150
The exhaust system serves to remove the products of combustion in the cylinders from the engine. Although the design is constantly being improved by the leading automakers, the principle of operation has remained unchanged for decades. Types of Aftermarket Exhaust Systems:the three main types of exhaust systems are header-back, cat-back, and axle-back.
The fuel-air mixture, when burned, produces a large volume of air mixture, which is called exhaust. In order to fill the cylinders of the car engine with the next portion of fuel, the mixture must be promptly discharged outside. This is what the exhaust system is for. It also suppresses noise, reduces the toxicity of exhaust gases, and prevents their penetration into the car interior. Let’s look at what each part of the exhaust system is responsible for: this includes the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, and muffler.
The Exhaust Manifold
It consists of a set of cylinders that connect the engine combustion chamber to the converter. The diagram of the exhaust system does not contain a manifold by accident – its main purpose is to transfer the gases to the catalytic converter and take the next batch of air mixture.
Manufacturers produce it from ceramic or metal (stainless steel, cast iron). The latter products are more durable, easier to withstand the effects of aggressive operating conditions: contact with the air mixture of high temperature, vibration. A steel version is preferred – condensate that accumulates on its walls does not cause the appearance of corrosion. At the same time, the ceramic collector weighs less.
Catalytic converter (neutralizer). A chemical reaction takes place in it, which produces pure compounds of oxygen and nitrogen oxide. The former is necessary to maintain the combustion process of the residual fuel contained in the gases. The output is a mixture consisting of carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide.
Catalytic Converter (Neutralizer)
It is difficult to imagine a car’s exhaust system without a neutralizer – it reduces carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon levels in the exhaust gases, and reduces or removes nitrogen oxides completely. These pollute the environment and reduce breathing air quality. But in order for the catalytic converter to perform its functions properly, it must be in good working order, and to do this, high-quality fuel must be used.
Inside the catalytic converter, encased in a metal housing, is a ceramic block. It contains numerous channels, and each one is coated inside with platinum (often with additives of rare metals such as rhodium, palladium, or iridium). The materials of manufacture largely determine the high cost of this element, but there is an alternative – a ribbon metal catalyst. Its shape allows increasing the contact area of the surface and the diverted gases by several times.
Muffler and Tuning
Most motorists and car owners do not realize the importance of the exhaust system in a modern car. Also, it is very important to choose the right Muffler. In addition to the fact that it provides a quieter operation of the car and engine, and reduces the level of emissions, it also normalizes the operation of the engine. Not really, but all modern engines are configured to work with a particular exhaust system, deprived of which the engine can give failures.
When Should I Replace My Exhaust System?
Muffler replacement is a common procedure encountered by one or another motorist sooner or later. On average, each muffler lasts from 5 to 8 years. This period may vary up or down, but not much. It all depends only on the quality of the original parts. If you see any interference or the sound became quite loud at the diagnostics, it’s a signal to replace the system. The appearance of some holes is the result of wear and tear. At the same time, the repair for a long time will not solve the problem. After all, corrosion is a process that spreads quickly and is not regulated. That’s why it’s best to buy a new element right away, so you don’t have to bother with the repair as a whole.
Bottom Line
Thus, an aftermarket exhaust system can unleash the full power of your engine. It can provide a quicker, more efficient route for the exhaust gases in your engine to escape, allowing the engine to “breathe” a bit easier.
