MagnaFlow vs. MBRP [Archive] - Diesel Place : Chevrolet and GMC Diesel Truck Forums

: MagnaFlow vs. MBRP


TheBac
06-26-2004, 10:16 PM
OK....This kinda follows on the tail of the poll going on right now. I came into some extra cheese, so I'm probably going to be buying a 4" exhaust for the ole beast, along with some other goodies, but I've been doing some research and I'm a bit confused. Banks is too high-priced for their setup, so they're out. I don't know enough about HOG to make a determination. I like the MBRP 409 setup, and was able to check one out at JK's open house. But in reading here I came upon the MagnaFlow system, which intrigues me. Both MBRP and MagnaFlow spec out about the same price. What I'm wondering is:


Is the MagnaFlow system 304 or 409 stainless? They aren't specific, and just say "stainless steel". Since I haven't seen one in person, is the Quality comparable to MBRP? What do you guys think of HOG, if you own one? What about drone...any problems with that? Am I answering my own questions as I'm asking them? Maybe... *LOL* Inquiring minds want to know.


Since I don't have a cat, is it really necessary to buy the "frontpipe" or "downpipe" or whatever the hell you call it?


Anyone have any pics of MagnaFlow or HOG installed?


Any input here would be appreciated...Thanks guys.


Tom http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Pig.gif

GMC-2002-Dmax
06-26-2004, 10:34 PM
The only advantage to buying the front pipe no matter who's exhaust you buy is to get the benefit of a 4" off the turbo outlet.


If you go from the CAT or Flange back you have 3 1/2" till the new 4" exhaust.


If you do not mind the restriction then go CAT/FLANGE BACK.


Thttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clown.gifNY

GMC2500HD
06-26-2004, 10:51 PM
http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gifYa but we are not talking much restriction here. Do you really gain that much from the 4" turbo pipe down into the exhaust?

GMC-2002-Dmax
06-26-2004, 10:55 PM
I do not have specific data for the actual gains.........


But 4" all the way has got to be better than 3 1/2" for 5 feet then 4" the rest of the way.


The 3 1/2 " exhaust down pipe does not add as much of a restriction as the STOCK muffler does.


Thttp://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gifNY

gearhead
06-26-2004, 11:44 PM
on the phone with MBRP they told Me that I would not notice any diferance if I didn't install the down pipe.

snowho
06-27-2004, 12:30 AM
Tom,


I have the Magnaflow exhaust installed on my truck which also has no cat on it and love it. The Magnaflow is 409 stainless and is a well designed and manufactered with a excellent fit and super easy to install. I have no drone at highway speeds and the sound is not loud but throaty. I'll send you some pictures of the system installed on my truck tomorrow morning. If you have any questions give me a call (775)240-5636 or email me.


Aaron Phillips


AP Diesel Performance www.apdieselperformance.com (http://www.apdieselperformance.com)

Max Power
06-27-2004, 12:33 AM
on the phone with MBRP they told Me that I would not notice any diferance if I didn't install the down pipe.


Performance wise you won't but EGT's your probably will.

mahalkita
06-27-2004, 01:59 AM
Mathematically speaking 3 1/2 versus 4 inch is a reduction to 76.6 % of the possible flow rate with the 4 inch system all the way down. Seems little but might be a whole lot!

snowho
06-27-2004, 12:55 PM
Tom, hope these help. Aaron





http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/DD3_109_0932.JPG


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/127_109_0930.JPG


http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/uploads/8D9_109_0929.JPG

TheBac
06-27-2004, 10:30 PM
Thanks guys, for the replies and PM's...it really helps a lot. Will let you know what I decide to get, and how it goes.


Tom http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Pig.gif

ShumDit
06-28-2004, 02:28 AM
Tom ~ I must be following you around. I too have looked at the Hog but can't seem to get any field experience about it but is 304 w/very good mounting HW. Ebay is running Magnoflow fairly heavy at good pricing. MBRP I'm told has just seen a price increase and I just found an afforable 5" MBRP system but is aluminized. Choices, choices ~ gives one a headache ~ one of the primary reasons I try to avoid shopping. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Confused.gif

Mark Craig
06-28-2004, 09:40 AM
TheBac,


There are some significant differences between the MBRP and Magnaflow.


First and foremost the MBRP is built with a single one piece tail pipe just like the factory part is made on every truck since I can remember. The Magnaflow has a two piece tail pipe and if you have a 4x4 you/traffic will see the clamp joint from behind the truck all the time. Not a real plus for appearance. Plus the clamps are mild steel and if an when they ever rust or fail the two piece tail pipe can foul the suspension at the worst possible moment. Second the MBRP includes T-304 stainless welded hangers whenever possible on all the stainless systems no matter if you select the T-409 or a T-304 system. We know that if you are going to have a problem it will 1st be with the hangers so the use of T-304 on the welded hangers eliminates that potential problem. It costs more but we never want to hear from you on a warranty claim.The MBRP systems have the option of adding the front pipe if you want it, not so with Magnaflow. The 409 systems have the option to choose what type of tip you want if you want one at all, and the tip is a clamp on design so you don't have to go out and find a welder that is equipped with stainless wire to weld on your tip like Maganflow does. If you don't weld it on with stainless wire the weld will rust the first time it gets wet. We have two different dual wall tips and two different single wall tips to pick from. The 304 systems come standard with the top of the line dual wall tips. Finally the MBRP has the Spiral Flow muffler that helps speed the exhuast gas exit a little faster, very small thing but there none the less. You also have the option to get duals or singles with MBRP, that may not matter to you but shows the direction MBRP is going to be THE diesel suppliuer of exhaust systems.


We have them all in stock so if you have any questions let us know or give us a call, and yes we do guarantee all of our pricing even against competitive brands if they are close as far as quality etc etc.


Mark @ DPPI

TheBac
06-28-2004, 09:55 PM
Thanks for the reply and the information, Mark. I appreciate that you take the time to answer our questions.


Shumdit, I wondered why I felt like someone was looking over my shoulder as I surfed the Exhaust Websites!!!!! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif


You aren't kidding about choices. Well, if HOG is 304, that means it's now outta my price range. 'Sides, I don't need anything "pretty" and shiny, just the part that shows. Want long lasting, so 409 is the ticket. Probably will go MBRP. Thanks all!!!!!!


Tom http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Pig.gif

redneck45
06-29-2004, 06:52 AM
HOG, sold through jegs is 304 and priced at $549! But I haven't talked to anyone that actually bought it yet.

Mark Craig
06-29-2004, 10:09 AM
TheBac,


With our MBRP systems you still get the "'Sides, I don't need anything "pretty" and shiny, " as all of the T-409 and all of the T-304 systems are polished. Now the 409 polish won't last like the 304 but when you open the box it'll be pretty slick. Call us if you need an y questions answered etc.


Mark @ DPPI

Mt. Hunter
07-01-2004, 03:19 PM
Both Hog and ATS are here in Salt Lake City, and both have showrooms. Both of them have takeoff parts from competitors. I saw some Banks takeoff stuff down there and the hangers were rusty and didn't look so good. Neither did the muffler. The ATS system is 409 and has thicker pipes than what was on the Banks. The oval ATS muffler has a full 4" tube with small holes, not punched perforations, and some kind of ceramic packing that's said to keep the outside cool. The entire Hog system is polished 304, including 3 different mufflers and some really well-designed proprietary hanger/clamps. The mufflers have punched perforations and no packing....2 are straight through and one has a combination bypass/straight through system which is supposed to be throaty but no louder than stock and with no backpressure. I haven't bought one yet, but they make a beautiful product for about $525.


**Only stainless on this truck....my gas truck has a Gibson cat-back and after about 6yrs the muffler rusted off.

jeepinfun
07-01-2004, 04:17 PM
i have no doubt that ATS would have an old banks kit there for show.Probably the oldest one they could locate that was beat to H**l..So really that is NO representation of the quality of Banks stuff.I am quite sure also if you wonder over to banks you will find similar junk from ATS or other competition...That is how manufacturers promote themselves over everyone else.Banks products are very good,as is the magnaflow stuff etc.

Scotty Seelen
07-01-2004, 04:32 PM
That Banks polished muffler sure is pretty. I even wash mine.

Mark Craig
07-02-2004, 09:52 AM
Mt. Hunter,


"The entire Hog system is polished 304, including 3 different mufflers and some really well-designed proprietary hanger/clamps. The mufflers have punched perforations and no packing....2 are straight through and one has a combination bypass/straight through system which is supposed to be throaty but no louder than stock and with no backpressure."


Remember a unpacked muffler is actually a restriction. As the exhaust gasses flow into the outer can of an unpacked muffler they then try to fight their way back into the main exhaust stream with the the gasses that are at a higher velocity because they never got side tracked into the outer can. So you have two different speed gasses fighting to reform into one and it causes a restriction in flow. If you're going to have a muffler it needs to be packed, preferably with a product like the ceramic blanket and stainless steel wool that the MBRP systems use. It won't blow out like the inexpensive system do that still use fiberglass as packing material etc. If you don't pack the muffler you might as well just use a straight piece of pipe and cut the price to the customer!


Mark @ DPPI

TheBac
07-12-2004, 10:09 PM
To Update:


Bought MBRP 409 cat-back from DSTRBD. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Clap.gif Thanks again Nate!!!!


The box (DAMN thats a big box!) arrived July 9th. Just waiting for the 4" band clamps from Jegs to get here so I can install it.


I'm fired up!! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Thumbs Up.gif


Tom http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Pig.gif

DSTRBD
07-12-2004, 10:28 PM
Tom- Give me a holler if you need help with the install. Should be pretty straight forward with no cutting since you have a CC SB. Your gonna love it!

tpitt
07-12-2004, 10:31 PM
jeepinfun,


I don't know whether or not you've actually seen an A.T.S. system, but they are very high quality. They are also very expensive. I've installed several different exhaust systems, and not to knock you Mark, but A.T.S. is the highest quality I've ever installed. MBRP has made better strides, and I still use them, but they are not the quality of A.T.S. No offense to anyone, but let the truth be known. I am always looking for better exhaust systems to install. Time is money and the easier I can make it on myself the better I feel. I'm actually going to try some of the ones A.F.E are marketing. I believe they are Jardine.


I was doing a Transferflow fuel tank on a customers pick up earlier this month and he had a Banks exhaust. The muffler was cracking on the front weld. tpitt

TheBac
07-12-2004, 11:30 PM
DSTRBD....thanks for the offer!!!! You going to be in Mid-Michigan this weekend?!? Just kidding! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif


tpitt -- Thanks for the insight. ATS is a 304 system, and those were out of my price range. MBRP is still the best for the $$, no matter if it's 409 or 304, IMO.


Tom http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Pig.gif

RaceHemi
07-13-2004, 08:07 AM
TTS gets my vote! Huge muffler, very quiet.

ShumDit
07-13-2004, 08:10 PM
Looks like there is many of us looking for 'quiet' performance system. I know I am. Unfortunately, quiet seems to cost more. However, it indicates a market for the astute business person.

TheBac
07-13-2004, 10:00 PM
Looks like there is many of us looking for 'quiet' performance system. I know I am. Unfortunately, quiet seems to cost more. However, it indicates a market for the astute business person.


See Mr. Borla's MBRP thread.


Tom http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Pig.gif

MBRP
07-14-2004, 10:53 AM
Hi all. I'm not one to push our products here on the forums but I see many DMAX oxners looking for quiet. We are just about to release our new diesel resonator and let me tell you first hand, it is quiet. Some of the tech guys here installed it on my personal DMAX last week, its way to quiet for me. To each their own. I have no noticable EGT change while towing.


Results are as follows


MBRPinc system with front pipe , no convertor.


idle 54db with res 52db


1500 RPM 61.5db with res 58.5db


2000 RPM 68db with res 66db


2500 RPM 69db with res 68db


Check with any of the MBRPinc venders here on the forum if you are interested in this piece. It is new, they may have to call in to get their price on these units


FYI It will fit on any 4" exhaust system does not matter which brand you have.


MB

Mitchagain
07-14-2004, 01:51 PM
MBRP, Now you got my attention. I have a 4" muffler built in to my 3.5" OEM system. Its OK, but not as quiet as I would like it. I was looking at "AIR FLOW SYSTEMS" 4" Resonator, but nobody here has ever used one, so there is no feedback. I got the EGT drop I was looking for by just installing the 4'" muffler, so you tell me, do you think I should go with a 3.5" or a 4" resonator?

WillowCreekStable
07-14-2004, 06:05 PM
MBRP, do you have comparable noise levels for a stock system? Where does the resonator mount?

MBRP
07-15-2004, 11:56 AM
Mitchagain,


In the diesel world most feel bigger is better, if the 4" will work for you us it. Like I said just give any MBRPinc vender here on this forum a call, they can help you get the resonator.


WillowCreekStable


I do not have stock db reading atthis time. You do bring up a good point here, the only problem around here is that all our DMAX trucks run one of our MBRP inc systems already. I will try to find a stocker and get these numbers posted here really soon. The neat part about the rez is that it can be mounted in any section of straight 4" tubing in any brand of system. You need approx 16" of straight section in the system to mount our resonator.


Hope this helps


MB

Mitchagain
07-15-2004, 12:51 PM
MBPR, when I first broached this subject a month or so ago (http://dieselplace.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=10720&PN=5) I found very little "resonator" use among all of us. Being an old fart, that likes good perfomance, noise is an issue. I talked to a few knowledgable (?) people and their responses were that the resonator could be mounted before or after the muffler. I have one of your mufflers in place and was concerned about the position. Right now I am planning on inserting just after the flange, in front of the muffler. I like the deep rumble sound from the tailpipe, but it is a little louder than I want in the cab. Its not terribly obnoxious, but its louder than stock and the closer I can get to OEM noise, the better I (& wife) will like it.


BTW, I did make some before and after tests (unscientific but consistant) and my EGT drop with your muffler versus OEM was 125-200 degrees - I was impressed. This was at various RPM/Speed rates.

MBRP
07-15-2004, 02:16 PM
Mitchagain


I have the resonator mounted right where you have indicated, just after the flanged area, before the muffler. FYI, I have a 2004 LB7 , are you the LB7 or LLY?


My truck now is actually too quiet for my taste, it may be just what you are looking for.


Thanks for the EGT info.


MB

Mitchagain
07-15-2004, 02:59 PM
MBRP, I have the '02 LB7, Got my muffler installed and really like it. The install went well (I have my own 110v welder) even after making my own 3.5" to 4" adapter. Can the Resonator come 3.5" or do you recommend the 4" size? Mitch

MBRP
07-16-2004, 08:13 AM
Mitchagain


We only have the new resonators available in a 4" inlet / outlet. We really do not have much call for 3.5" units so we have not produced this.


Will you be able to use the 4" unit?


MB

Mitchagain
07-16-2004, 12:04 PM
I talked to Craig yesterday at DPPI, good information. Great group to deal with (I got the muffler from DPPI). Yes a 4" will work, I have a welder and can make an adapter easy enough. Headed to San Diego tomorrow to visit with my Marine son, fresh back from beautiful downtown Bagdad and Fallujah. After that trip, I am certain that the wife will easily agree to another investment! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif


Any idea of the timing for delivery if ordered next week?

MBRP
07-16-2004, 02:10 PM
Give DPPI the order and it would likely arrive within the next week. Part number is R1009.


MB

Mark Craig
07-19-2004, 11:16 AM
Mitchagain,


Sent some out last week so far folks love'em. Let us know if I can help you with one.


Mark @ DPPIEdited by: Mark Craig

Mitchagain
07-19-2004, 07:06 PM
Payday is just around the corner! The Trip trip to San Diego to pickup my Marine son (fresh from Iraq), proved one thing, open highway the noise from the muffler is not offensive. EGTs stayed as expected 650-1000 depending the speed and the hills, which was at least 125-200 lower than the last trip. The biggest issue is the 'in the cab' noise while city driving. Its more'n I want to listen to, and more than my lovely wife likes too. Her comment is "Ok the EGT is down, but that noise kinda defeats the purpose of buying a qiet diesel." Can't argue with that logic. Mark, expect a call soon. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif

GRMax
07-19-2004, 07:53 PM
Mark, Any idea if your Dual system for a 2001 max, S/B,C/C that has a 45 Gal Transfer Flow replacement tank installed, would fit? Can your new resonator be used with your Dual system?


PS I hope you answer NO to the above http://dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big%20Smile.gif


Chuck

Mark Craig
07-20-2004, 09:03 AM
GRMax,


Can't say for sure on the transfer flow, shouldn't be a problem though as the single or dual system follows the same path as the stock system till we get to the muffler on the duals anyway. The drivers side tail pipe on duals crosses over behind the fuel tank so it shouldn't be a problem either, but I haven't done an install with a Transfer Flow myself either.


Check this link:


MBRP EXHAUST (http://dieselplace.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=11123&PN=1)


It has a lot of pics that will allow you to take specific truck location points to reference to your fuel tank installation and see if it will work. Hey I am curious as well as there will be other folks with tanks like you too!


Using the resonator is easy on singles or duals as it goes up front as far as possible anyway.


Mark @ DPPIEdited by: Mark Craig

JandDPerformance
07-21-2004, 03:22 AM
We've done some pretty extensive dyno testing on the two systems and have consistantly found the MBRP/DPPI system to make 3-10 more horsepower and and 5-12 more ft-lbs of torque more than the Magnaflow. Although power isn't everything, having the most information you can when making your decision always helps.


Jeremy Lachenmyer


J&D Performance

95geo
07-21-2004, 07:20 AM
would you happen to have a dyno sheet? im curious to see the difference in the curves from stock to the 4"

is it a 3-10 hp spike or is it over a few hundred rpms?

JandDPerformance
07-21-2004, 01:01 PM
I'll have to pull them out of the dyno computer. Give me a few hours and i'll post them.


Jeremy Lachenmyer


J&D Performance

GRMax
07-23-2004, 08:04 AM
Mark, Thanks for the response. It looks like the dual system "might" be fine with the transfer flow. Chuck

Mark Craig
07-23-2004, 08:34 AM
GRMax,


Excellent, keep me/us posted if you decide to get one of our dual systems so that we will know if the system fits as is or if you have to do any tweaking because of the transfer flow system. I am sure it will come up again in the future.


Mark @ DPPI

tpitt
07-24-2004, 01:14 AM
I haven't installed any MBRP duals, but have done a few ATS duals and the transferflow tank isn't a problem with them. tpitt


Mark I may be giving you a call soon. Just got 3 of another brand exhaust to try on Duramax's and the front pipe wasn't even close. Going to check the other two boxes and if they're the same, back they go. Got free shipping on these and you know how cheap I am.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif So far the best I've installed are yours and ATS, and you guys keep improving. Remember, band clamps and welded on hangers. The only thing that would make it better is if you'd fly someone out to install them.http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/HiHi.gif Terry

flhrciblueice
07-24-2004, 04:42 AM
Since the topic title is MagnaFlow vs. MBRP, I figured I would post my findings here. I purchased the Magna because I found it at what I thought was a great price(I got it for around $250 shipped). IIRC, it is part #15925. It was advertised as a "downpipe back" system. It is not. It is from the 4-bolt flange back. You can see the pdf install instructions with an illustration of the system here:


http://allaboutdiesels.com/extras/15925,%2015926,%2015927_instructions.pdf


In the illustration, you can see that the "front extension pipe" is necked down to 3.5" where it is welded to the flange. I like the sound okay, but I wanted 4" from the downpipe back. I can get the intermediate pipe in a 4" from DPPI, and I have been discussing this option with Mark, but I am unsure if it would be logical to do this since the "front extension pipe" is necked down just aft of the flange. It is only approximately 1/2"(width of the weld) or so of the pipe that is affected. This may have been covered before by someone else. I just wanted to make other people aware of this. I am considering buying the intermediate pipe and cutting the flange and weld off of both pieces, then fabricating my own connection between the two pieces or selling this system to someone that wants a cat-back(my truck is an LB7 w/no cat) and purchasing the complete system from DPPI. I guess I can't complain since it was so cheap, but I still don't like not getting that other pipe.

D15TUR3ED
07-24-2004, 05:10 AM
Hey, I say get over it. you paid $250 bucks for an exhaust system shipped when others are paying 500-750. You got a great deal even without the downpipe so quit complaining!

TheBac
07-24-2004, 10:20 AM
Update:


Finally put MBRP system on last weekend. Quality construction and fit, and it bolted right up to factory flange. Took about 3 hours to do, but I was working slow.


Getting the stock system out was a chore. Besides backing the truck up on ramps, I had to use my jack and a 3 ft piece of wood to push body up about 6 more inches to wiggle the stocker out. Also, take the passenger side rear shock off, it helps immensely (I read that on the forum, but forgot who posted it...thanks for the advise!!!!!)


It's pretty simple to install the system, and the instructions are good. As with most any exhaust piping, you have to sometimes "manipulate" the ends to fit pieces together, but nothing out of the ordinary. http://dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big%20Smile.gif I found in order to make the tip look right I had to cut about 4 inches off the end of the tailpipe. Again, no problem....


Those band clamps from Jeg's work well, and have a good seal. Plus, they only cost $9 bucks a piece. Makes adjusting the pieces a breeze, and they don't buckle the pipes.


The only thing I wasn't thrilled with was that the exhaust hangers were welded to clamps, not the pipes. Had to sit there and actually think about which ones went where, and they do detract from the areas you can see from the side. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Ermm.gif I know, I'm being picky. If this is the only problem I have with the system, I guess thats ok.


As for performance... when I get on it, my truck now sounds like my '83 Mustang GT did with headers and duals...nice deep rumble. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Cool.gif When just driving "like an old man" or cruising on the freeway, there's no noticable difference over stock, other than when RPM's come up before gear changes. I didn't notice the extra, annoying drone that some talk about, but then I like a deeper exhaust note. All that being said, I like the system a lot. http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif


Thing is, now I'm wishing I would have bought the duals! http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/smileys/Big Smile.gif


flhrciblueice,


After talking to Kennedy, DmaxAllitech and DSTRBD at the GTG about exhaust, I saw that the big restriction is the pipe connected to the turbo itself. Find a way to fix THAT, then you've got something! Replacing the leadpipe is just a matter of choice in th

flhrciblueice
07-25-2004, 12:57 AM
Hey, I say get over it. you paid $250 bucks for an exhaust system shipped when others are paying 500-750. You got a great deal even without the downpipe so quit complaining!


D15TUR3ED, complaining was not the point of my post. Quoted from my post:


"I just wanted to make other people aware of this."


"I guess I can't complain since it was so cheap"


The main reason for my post was to let other people know about the system. I understand that I got it for a great price.

Mark Craig
07-26-2004, 09:36 AM
tpitt,


Can't post it yet but you will like some of the new stuff that is headed to the market, easier to install, better features etc etc.


Mark @ DPPIEdited by: Mark Craig

Rich H.
06-20-2005, 02:29 PM
I just installed a set of "Pro" 304 stainless set on my truck, and I would like to say they fit great, look good and the turbo does wind up much faster. As for their clamps, I did not use them at all. I ordered a set of stainless band clamps from a company that I will edit into this page when I find the paper work on them. Now as for the sound, it sounds great untill you nail it, then the turbo comes to life and it screams. As for me it is way to loud, so I will order a resenator from them to help bring the sound under control. But that is just me, some will like it the way it is. They also tell you that it may be close if you have a hitch in the bed, but I have bolts going down about an inch from the bed holding the fith wheel plate in place. Found no problems at all with fit, and instal was about an hour total on the lift in my building.
The kit that I used on my truck: S6002304 plus the front pipe & maybe the resinator Part# R1009