What is a cat-back system and how is it different from a dualed out exhaust?

Answer 1

A cat back system is simply all exhaust system components like mufflers or pipes which are attached 'after' or 'back' of the catalytic converter. Here is the twist... it is quite possible for a cat back system to also be a true dual exhaust system if there are 2 separate catalytic converters, each with its own exhaust system components behind it. Then a cat back system in this particular instance, would still include the components being replaced 'after' the cats. The differences arise when there is a single catalytic converter but with split or dual exhaust components after it. From behind the car, the dual exhaust pipes make it look like the car has dual exhaust, but in actual fact it only has one pipe leading to the cat converter and then has 2 sets of exhaust components 'after' it. Again, any cat back system could be either single pipe and component or dual pipes and components. Most cat back systems were created to allow use of the legally mandated cat converter while freeing up exhaust flow after the converter.

More answers:

• Cat-back is simply a strait pipe from the cat back. The difference is a dual exhaust can still have mufflers on the pipes.
• Cat-back means whatever exhaust that is dual starts at the cat. Dual starts at the manifolds and duals all the way back. You could have cats in duals if you wished and spent the big bucks.
• Cat back" exhaust is all the pipe and muffler(s) from your catalytic converter to the tailpipe. it is a must in emissions legal vehicles to avois a ticket if your replacing your factory exhaust. however "true duals" are very cheap and are nothing more than a pipe from the manafold or header, to the tailpipe, no mufflers or cats.