When we last left off our 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Diesel, we installed an AirAid Cold Air Intake (CAI) system. The new intake provided a slight performance improvement, but more importantly – it made for a better sound and quicker throttle response. You could hear the turbo spooling sound and the blow-off valve action a little more clearly. But we were not done with our Project Pickup. We knew we could do a lot better.
So, we went back to our friend from AutoAnything.com to get a performance exhaust system. They suggested that we get an MBRP Downpipe-Back exhaust system. It means that all of the exhaust pipe work gets replaced, all the way to the donwpipe that leaves the turbo. MBRP says that this upgrade can improve fuel economy 1-2 MPG and also can provide up to an additional 18 HP and 28 ft/lb of torque. Of course, it sounds great while doing it.
We were anxious to put this new exhaust system in and see just how it performs. I was a little worried that it would be too loud for my liking. Well, a professional installer at a local Midas took just under an hour and half to perform the whole install with the truck on the lift. The 10 year old factory exhaust system came out relatively easy in two pieces. No cutting was required. The only slightly issue was transferring the old downpipe clamp from the old system and onto the new. This clamp had some rust on it and did not want to separate from where its been for 10+ years. The new system popped in relatively easy with just one slight clearance problem against the frame crossbar. It was just barely touching there. However, it turned out to be a non-issue once it went through a few heat cycles and settled in.
What was the result? My worries about the loudness were unfounded. The truck now has deeper and slightly louder voice, but it’s not uncomfortable or annoying. In fact, while coasting the truck feels a little quieter now. I am very happy with the result. I keep want to step on it at every chance I get – just to hear the more aggressive sound. You can also hear the turbo much more clearly now.
Please watch this TFLcar video to find out exactly how it sounds and how it performs 0-60 MPH at mile high above sea-level. Roman, Nathan, and I had a lot of fun doing this test.
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, software engineer, writer, and reporter. He has been writing and reporting at TFLcar since 2011. When not working or spending time with the family – you can find him tinkering in the garage or scouring the internet and other media for various automotive, mechanical, and computer related information.
