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Axle Back vs Catback Exhaust Systems

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So you’re looking to get yourself an aftermarket exhaust system on your car? It’s an exciting decision for any car lover, but where should you begin? Two of the most popular aftermarket exhaust systems are the catback and the axle. To help you make a decision, let’s break down the ins and outs of each one.

 

Catback Exhaust

 

A catback exhaust system is one that replaces everything that sits behind the catalytic converter to where the exhaust pipes finish, hence the term ‘cat-back’. These are a real popular aftermarket exhaust as they offer a strong performance and sound plus you don’t need to invest in a new catalytic converter. It’s essentially a powder mod which produces a stronger engine note plus frees up the gas flow of your system. Generally, these are made of a muffler, resonator and a rear-pipe. The benefits of investing are: 

 

1 . Improved Power 

 

When you get yourself a cat back exhaust, you’ll certainly be achieving more power. Aftermarket exhausts are usually designed with larger piping and higher quality mandrel tubing; improving the overall flow. There’s less pressure within the engine, so it has the opportunity to give more horsepower. 

 

  1. Improved Sound

 

Most people who want an aftermarket exhaust system are looking for enhanced sound performance on their vehicle. With a cat back exhaust, you’ll certainly achieve this; giving your vehicle that sweet racing-car growl! 

 

Axle Back

 

An axle back system replaces the components that sit behind the axle, all the way to the end of the pipes. Essentially, the axle back includes the pipe and the muffler only. The benefits of choosing an axle back include:

 

1 . Price

 

The axle back is less expensive than cat-back systems, yet can still provide an enhanced performance for your vehicle. If you’re looking for an aftermarket exhaust system, but you aren’t keen to overspend, one of these is a great bet.

 

  1. Easy Installation

 

Axle backs are easier to install than cat back exhausts. It’s generally because fewer components are replaced, and so you may be able to install the exhaust system yourself. With an axle back you’ll still get improved power and sound performance on your car, though it may not be as impressive when compared with the cat back.

 

Making the choice 

 

To make a decision, you’ll need to include your budget and needs. For instance, if you’re a racing enthusiast regularly engaging in competitions, you may want to go for the strongest power and opt for a cat back. Megan Racing offer both types and more should you require more info. However, if you simply want a little more horsepower and sound performance at a nicer price, an axle is likely the one for you.

 

As with any motor decision, ensure to do your research thoroughly before investing. There are also other types of exhaust systems to take a look into. The decision is just as important as choosing the right car; whether you love the The Lexus RX 450h F Sport or your waiting out for the Aston Martin DBX!

Diagnosing Your Car’s Gearbox Problem

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A gearbox can be extremely costly to replace. Therefore, if there is a problem you need to make sure that it is dealt with immediately. You can save yourself hundreds of pounds via seeking a quick repair and ensuring that the problem does not get worse.

 

Nonetheless, in order to be able to do this, you need to be aware of the signs that indicate you have an issue with your gearbox. Nowadays, you can find out anything online. There are tutorials on how to regas your car air con, amongst other car matters. If you can diagnose a gearbox problem, then you will easily be able to send it off and get it fixed without major damage being caused to your bank account. Read on to discover some of the main symptoms of a gearbox issue…

 

Postponed engagement

Delayed engagement is a telling sign that there is something wrong with your gearbox. If you are noticing a delayed reaction when you shift gears then this should be a cause for concern. Nevertheless, when you are driving it can be hard to notice whether the shift in gears is truly postponed. The best way to get a good idea is to test the gears whilst you are sitting in park. Keep your foot on the brake and turn the engine on. Make sure your foot is still kept on the brake and move your gear into drive position. How does the car feel? If there is a delayed response this should ring alarm bells. But, if your car imminently feels like it wants to move forward then you will be fine.

 

Depleted fluid levels

Another sign that you may have gearbox troubles on the horizon is if you have low fluid levels. There is an easy way to check this. All you need to do is take a look at the transmission dipstick. If the levels are low then this is often an indication that you have a leak in your gearbox. It is not only about checking the level of your fluid either. You also need to make sure the oil is clear and that it does not smell. If you see black flakes or experience a burnt smell, then this is another signal that something isn’t quite right. If you are unsure regarding where to find your transmission dipstick, don’t worry as this can easily be located behind the oil dipstick. The difference between the two is that the transmission stick does not come up as much.

 

Jerky gears

And last but not least, the final telling sign that you have an issue with your gearbox is when the gears are noisy or result in your car jerking. First and foremost, if you can hear a noise when you shift gears then this is a telling sign there is a problem. Not only this, but another troubling indication is a jerky car. If you experience a jerky movement when you are switching gears it is highly recommended you get this seen to as soon as possible. After all, not only does it indicate your gearbox is damaged but it can also be dangerous too.