Car enthusiasts around the world appreciate the stunning looks of the Nissan 370Z, its impressive VQ37VHR engine, and the complete driving experience it provides. While the factory exhaust system gets the job done, it usually could be better, especially to those who want more sound and more power. One of the best modifications that you can do to the 370Z is fitting it with test pipes.
In case you want to go for 370Z test pipes, this article will serve as a guide to explain to you all that you need to know before you decide to buy them. This article is for enthusiasts who want to raise their 370Z to the next level, undertake installation, and can benefit from understanding how components work.
What Are Test Pipes For 370Z?
Test pipes are aftermarket exhaust parts that are intended to substitute the original catalytic converters found in the OEM exhaust system. In stock packaging, the catalytic converter is an important part in the exhaust system which facilitates the neutralization of toxic substances and makes them less harmful. While this is required to comply with emissions regulations, it leads to exhaust backpressure and lowers engine efficiency.
The restriction offered by the catalytic converters is eliminated when installing 370Z test pipes since they use a straight pipe configuration instead of the catalytic converters. This means that exhaust gases will flow more easily and emit the prescribed volume thereby improving engine efficiency and performance. Note that test pipes are not street legal instruments and are therefore better suited for racing applications.
How 370Z Test Pipes Improve Performance
Construction of the Pipe
By installing 370Z test pipes, one of the notable features which can be taken advantage of is the characteristic of the lesser constricting diameter of the piping. Test pipes remove the Catalina converters making sure that there is a clear exit of the exhaust gasses from the engine. Because there is a decrease in backpressure, this allows the to work more freely which means that power and torque will be enhanced.
The Increase of Power and Torque
Test pipes offer outstanding performance that any muscle car reef head can appreciate. With good exhaust outflow during the rotation cycles, the scavenge ability is improved meaning that there will be lower incoming air-fuel mixtures during the intake cycle which will help enhance the power output value at lowered RPMs which again would mean that there will be an increase in efficiency.
The Aggressive Exhaust Note within 370Z Test Pipes has No Equals.
Aside from improving performance, deleting the catalytic converter has a marked effect on the sound characteristics of your 370Z’s exhaust. Due to the lack of catalyst exhaust gas treatment, the sound becomes louder, lower, and more aggressive overall. For many true fans, this effect, the sound, is one of the main reasons to switch to test pipes.
Are 370Z Test Pipes Legal? Why Test Pipes are often marketed as “track Use Only.”
One of the most important issues that you have to think about before fitting test pipes is the legality of fitting test pipes. Many regions enforce laws requiring converters to control emissions, and by replacing them with test pipes, you make your vehicle non-compliant with these regulations.
For this reason, 370Z test pipes are often promoted as similar to “off-road use only” or “for track use.” Prior to fitting test pipes, verify local bylaws and ordinances to avoid fines or trouble during inspection. Otherwise, they will result in trouble.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Test Pipes for 370Z
When it comes to selecting test pipes for your 370Z, ensure you take the following factors into account to avoid making mistakes.
Material: Most good quality test pipes are made out of stainless steel and this is done to ensure the pipes are durable and do not rust. This is extremely important for a car such as the 370Z as it can be used on different environments basically anywhere in the world. Make sure the pipes you buy have a polished or a coated finish.
Design: Test pipes are available in custom engineered options and other options including resonated. Raspy or loud sounds are eliminated by the use of a chamber in the resonated test pipe; it makes use of a small chamber. A number of enthusiasts prefer non-resonated test pipes which produce very aggressive sound pipes.
Fitment: It is very important to note that only test pipes that are made for Nissan 370Z should be used. Loose fitting pipes cause exhaust leaks and also poor performance and poor installation. There are many well-known brands that manufacture direct fit pipes for your existing exhaust system.
Installation Process for 370Z Test Pipes The install of 370Z test pipes is an upgrade that has its rewards but is not entirely easy. Some DIY individuals who have done it before may consider it but others are advised that such work usually requires the right tools and expertise. Here are some things to look forward to during the process. Preparing for Installation Before starting, make sure all parts and tools are available such as gaskets, bolts, and clamps. It is also a good idea to lift the car with jack stands or use a car lift to make it easy to access the exhaust system.
Removing the Stock Catalytic Converters This includes disengaging the exhaust at the right places and unbolting the converters from the headers and mid-pipes. Make sure you have a penetrating oil and a breaker bar readily available as some bolts may have rusted and may be torqued more than expected. Installing the Test Pipes.. When the catalytic converters are removed, start by bolting the test pipes in place. Make sure all connections are tight and don’t forget to check that the gaskets are in place to prevent leaks. Verify fitment and all hardware tightening again.
Leak Testing: Once everything is installed, it is important to start the engine and check the entire exhaust system for leaks. Any of the leaks may cause undesirable performance and noise. In case there was a leak, check for any weak connections or loose bolts that need to be tightened.
Cons of Test Pipes for 370Z
There are some potential downsides as there are lots of advantages with 370Z test pipes regarding performance and sound but that’s not all:
Worsened Emission
It can be seen that by theory, removing catalytic converters with the use of test pipes make your vehicle non-compliant in the emissions in almost every area. This can lead to ticketing, failed emissions tests, or even being unable to legally drive the car.
Louder Noise from the Exhaust
Though many enthusiasts are open to such louder noise, this could be troublesome for those willing to use the car on a regular basis or even move into neighborhoods with strict regulations. This issue can be resolved with the use of some resonated test pipes.
Check Engine Light On
With the catalytic converters galore the check engine light will be on all the time thanks to the lack of escort 02 sensors responsible for emissions monitoring. This can be solved with an ECU tune or using O2 sensor spacers.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Installing 370Z Test Pipes?
Test pipes are an appealing and practical modification for those Nissan 370Z owners seeking for both performance and sound upgrade. 370Z test pipes extend the benefits to include increased bolts on horse power, torque and throttle response when installed with the intention of improving exhaust flow and reducing stress. Besides, the car’s aggressive sound output contributes to its overall sporty character.
That said, some of these benefits have certain downsides, mainly environmental pollution and the regulatory aspect of it. If you want to abuse your 370Z off-road or on the racetrack, slap some test pipes on. If you drive on the streets, make sure you know what you’re doing and consider resonated pipes to get the best performance without all the fine legal hurdles to jump through.
In the end, the question of whether or not to install 370Z test pipes comes down to your preferences and how you intend to operate the car. The 370Z can easily be tuned with top quality test pipes and installation to give it the great looks, feel and sound to match the performance of any other car.
