CAT back vs muffler only

Although the exhaust system on my ‘04 Tacoma V6, DC, TRD 4X4 is in good shape, I’m board and looking for a little more rumble and performance.

After searching this site, I’ve decided on Magnaflow. The catback system (magnaflow part # 15811) goes for about $500 at the local auto parts store.

What is stopping me from just getting a 14” or 18” Magnaflow muffler and installing it in place of the OEM muffler (leaving all the OEM 2.25” tubing and tailpipe in place)? Yes, I don’t get the polished 2.5" SS tubing, but what’s the difference?

What am I missing?

Bob

 

The only reason I can see going with a catback vs. just a muffler would be a cleaner install and easier to go back to stock.

 

...and the bigger piping allows the gases to flow a bit easier and the larger piping will lower the tone some.

 

Good points by everyone.

Cat back was my first call. Although the exhaust system appears to be in good shape, I’ve had this truck for 8 years…I’m concerned about getting the O2 sensor out & getting the rusted cat/pipe bolts out. Can turn into a real pain.

What does “gases to flow a bit easier” mean? More hp up top at the expense of low end torque?

The truck is basically a weekend toy hauler (see pic). Llives at low end torque.

Lower the tone some is good.

Here is what is really bugging me. If I go with just muffler, the remainder of the cash can go to an air induction system. So it is cat back vs. muffler and CAI.

Bob

 

I would go with just the muffler and save the cash. I would love to have a catback mainly for the clean install, but I have replaced just the muffler on my last two trucks and they looked and worked great. I have never been able to justify the $500 on a catback when I could get just the muffler installed for ~$150.

 

Another option; have a Custom shop do the "Cat back"....

I purchased just that a short time ago from Lou's Custom for around $300...

My 02 sensor was replaced earlier in life so they cut behind that and "opened" up the pipe size from there back to a "House STAINLESS muffler" ( Borla built,minor rumble,not a roar ) into a new tailpipe .....

My Rubber hangers were replaced by TOYOTA on the "Frame swap" so no need for new BUT all other hangers were "Virgins" created by LOU's ....exhaust sits up tighter into frame space and NO Rattles

BEST part, Muffler has a 5 year warranty and LOU's will warranty workmanship on ALL of it,including that front flange they "Cleaned up" ( guaranteed for state inspection)....

 

I’m going for it. Just ordered the polished SS Magnaflow catback from advanced auto for $469, free shipping and $50 off next >$100 web order w/ promo code.

 

JBA makes an affordable cat back and their focus is a long lasting product. I'm leaning towards an affordable cat back vs. a name brand exhaust. I had magna flow on my old truck and it was great, but for the price I should have had a cat back.