Took the Flowmaster risk

Frank S · May 16, 2004

In preparation for probably ordering a Westers PCM before long for the Sierra,I went down today and had the 50 series dual in/dual out big block Flowmaster put on the truckI figured it would give a little better flow than the stock muffler and I've never been one to worry too much about exhaust volume or drone so I figures,why not?The muffler was installed in place of the stock dual/dual muffler retaining my factory stainless piping and tailpipe.My observations:

You guys that siad this engine would be loud with this muffler were 110% dead on correct.There is definitely a lot more sound now but it does sound very good IMO.In fact,it's one of the meanest sounding late model trucks I've ever heard.

In cab resonance does exist,especially between about 1500-1900 rpm's but it isn't unbearable.This may be due to the fact that my ZR2 had an original 40 series Flowmaster dumped at the axle so I am used to resonance so what I have now may be more bothersome to others than it is to me.

Overall I love what it has done for the sound.I did not notice any low end power loss and actually think that it may have gained a little.This is just seat of the pants so I have no proof.Anyway,if you are thinking about doing this and don't fear in cab resonance,I say do it because it sounds awesome.If you don't like resonance,don't get this muffler.

HendyPhoto · May 16, 2004

I have the same exact setup and I have no "noticable" resonance. I had tons of resonance with the magnaflow though.

Frank S · May 16, 2004

I have the same exact setup and I have no "noticable" resonance. I had tons of resonance with the magnaflow though.

From my understanding,the 6.0 is more difficult to keep quiet than the big block is so that probably has something to do with it.

HendyPhoto · May 16, 2004

Yeah, that's true. Plus I understand that if you have your truck undercoated it helps too.

Frank S · May 16, 2004

Hmmm,didn't think about that.I may have to try that out.

LikeaRock14 · May 16, 2004

Congrats on the exhaust

I'll be looking to buying a Spin Tech to replace my Flowmaster within the next few weeks I hope. But hey, we're empty when it comes to 6.0 and 8.1 clips, mind making one Frank? It's pretty easy, just do like me, buy a $10 mic from a store and buy an extention cable for it, run it to the truck. I've heard many 6.0's with that muffler and I love it but we're looking to get clips of the 6.0 on exhaustsoundclips.com.

And Hendy, could you do the same for the 8.1?

Anyways, good choice Frank

Frank S · May 16, 2004

I'll have to look into making an audio clip for it.I've never done it but it can't be too terribly difficult.

HendyPhoto · May 16, 2004

Likearock, I have sound equipment and full audio video editing equipment, thats part of what I do for work, so I will get you a sweet clip. Want some video with it? Or just audio?

LikeaRock14 · May 16, 2004

Frank- True, it ain't too hard. The only thing you have to look out for is just to leave the mic far enough away from the truck so it isn't distorted. When you get around to it, just email it to me and I'll format it to mp3 and send it to Chris

And Hendy- Video's fine too, but when Chris crops it to put it on the site, it'll end up only being audio anyways, but if it saves the trouble, just do it audio.

Chris is Dying to hear an 8.1 lol

Frank S · May 16, 2004

I'm going to probably get to that some time this week.I'd do it now but my wife's laptop is down and that would be the easiest way for me to get you a clip.

Hopefully it will be back up tomorrow or tuesday.

HendyPhoto · May 16, 2004

Cool. Easier to do just audio anyway. I will just use the DAT recorder. I actually think the 6.0's sound better than the 8.1, kinda wierd, but I guess it depends on the exhaust setup.

LikeaRock14 · May 16, 2004

Thanks guys!!!

mayhem · May 18, 2004

Frank S - Glad to hear that you had the guts to give it a shot. Congrats! However, with your review I would have to say that I am now leaning towards the 70 series BBII. Hopefully that would give me the low rumble but all the noise only when I stomp on it. I too am on my way to a Webster's Hot Tune although every time I fill up the gas tank I am swearing to myself...

Frank S · May 18, 2004

I don't blame you at all on that 70 series Mayhem.It definitely can't be as loud as what I have now but once again,I love the sound and am used to more resonance so it doesn't really bother me much.

Hopefully the wife's laptop will be fixed wednesday evening so I can get a couple of soundclips on thursday.I'd love to be able to have some sound,inside and out,so those who are curious have a better idea of what I'm saying.