6 Things You Should Know Before Installing an Aftermarket Exhaust System

Do you want to improve your HiLux' performance for the next off-road trip without breaking your bank? Or maybe you're just a gearhead who wants to get the most power and a more aggressive sound out of their engine, cruise down the highway, turning heads wherever you go. Let's face it, whatever the reason, owning and driving a high-performance vehicle can get your heart pumping adrenaline. The best way to make your HiLux a monster on and off the road is by installing an aftermarket Toyota HiLux exhaust. But before you buy an aftermarket system, there are a few different things you need to consider to make sure you get the best exhaust that will improve your HiLux' power, fuel efficiency and sound.


A lot of people may wonder: "Why should I upgrade my vehicle's exhaust system?". And the answer to that question is quite simple - stock exhaust systems aren't made with performance, sound and mileage in mind. Instead, they're made to be affordable in order to reduce the overall price of the vehicle to make it more competitive on the market. As a result, one of the first things many 4x4 enthusiasts upgrade on their vehicles is precisely the exhaust system. You'll get a noticeable performance upgrade for your HiLux with an aftermarket Toyota HiLux exhaust, while also improving fuel economy and the way your HiLux sounds. Besides these benefits, here's what else you should know about 4x4 exhaust systems:

Snorkels Make a Difference 

Installing a snorkel on your HiLux will force stale air out of the engine, while providing it with more cool, fresh air. This is important as stale air can lead to build-up of fuel and oil residue, reducing your engine's fuel efficiency. That being said, if you're venturing off the beaten trail, make sure you get a wide diameter snorkel on top of an aftermarket exhaust system to make sure your engine gets more airflow.

More Noise Doesn't Mean More Performance

A loud exhaust doesn't automatically mean more power. In fact, the complete opposite may happen - it can be bad for your HiLux. While you're going to get a different exhaust note out of every aftermarket Toyota HiLux exhaust system, make sure the one you choose features a high-flow muffler and high-flow catalytic converter. These two parts can provide superior performance and fuel efficiency.

Size Matters

Aftermarket exhaust systems that feature larger diameter pipes and parts prevent the build up of back pressure, and they improve the efficiency at which the gases come and go from the system. Reducing back pressure also reduces the exhaust gas temperature and turbo lag in turbo engines, which can be very beneficial if you're towing heavy loads up on steep inclines. However, the exhaust system shouldn't be too large for your HiLux, as that can result in performance loss. Consult an experienced mechanic or your local dealership to see what the largest you can go on your HiLux is.

Should You DIY?

Most aftermarket exhaust kits come with all the parts you need to install the system yourself .You'll have to use the factory mounts of the stock exhaust, so it should be relatively easy. You should follow the instructions that come with the aftermarket exhaust kit, or try the internet for some tips and tricks. If you don't feel confident doing it yourself, you can always have a professional do it for you.

How Much Do Aftermarket Exhausts Cost?

Most new, quality aftermarket exhaust systems can cost anywhere between $500 and $2000, depending on what they're made from and how many parts of the exhaust they replace. For instance, stainless steel exhaust systems are typically more expensive than aluminium exhaust systems, simply because stainless steel is more expensive as a raw material. However, when purchasing a stainless steel exhaust system, you can rest assured you're buying a product that's going to last for many years, is corrosion-resistant, handles heat extremely well and is very tough overall. Aluminium, while not as durable and strong as stainless steel, is lightweight, meaning you can get better mileage out of your HiLux.


Furthermore, there are three popular types of aftermarket exhaust kits - axle-back, header-back and cat-back. Header-back systems replace the entire stock system, meaning they're the most expensive, but also provide the most performance benefits and fuel efficiency improvements. Cat-back exhaust systems replace all the parts from the catalytic-converter to the exhaust tip, and you get moderate performance and fuel efficiency improvements, but they cost less than header-back exhausts. Lastly, axle-back exhaust systems don't replace any meaningful parts, so they only change how your Hilux sounds and looks. These systems are the most affordable and easiest to install by yourself.

Are Loud Exhaust Systems Illegal in Australia?

Some people remove the muffler so that their vehicle sounds louder. In most cases, especially around Australia, this is illegal, simply because it can lead to exhaust leaks. These leaks can be dangerous, and they can hurt your fuel economy. Furthermore, driving a vehicle without a muffler is illegal, meaning that open pipes are also illegal.

Motorbike Parts That Can Boost the Looks of Your Ride & Ensure Safety

Some own a motorbike as a means to cut through rush hour traffic, others want to race theirs far away from any traffic lights. And then, there are those that simply want to take it to its limit and pull all kinds of stunts. Whatever the source of your motorbike obsession you can bet the elements of style and safety play an important part.


Bikes attract glances. Their visuals are captivating and the style of motorbikes (as well as their riders) has iconic status. So, if you own one, it is going to be your duty and pleasure to boost its looks to the best of your abilities. And while doing so, you shouldn't overlook safety. Here are some of the best motorbike parts that can help you in your endeavour. 

Motor Lights

Headlights, tail stop lights and indicator lights are among the most sought after motorbike parts available online. And for a good reason as they can make your bike stand out like nothing else. Plus, a good set of headlights are crucial for visibility on the road.

When it comes to looks, there are all sorts of light designs to choose from. Let’s take the headlights for example. You can go for vintage style lights, or you can be very specific and mount Bates style light fixtures. Grill headlights are for those that want to project a more outrageous vibe.



Same goes for tail lights. You can go for cat-eyed twin tail and stoplights. It will turn some heads, that’s guaranteed. Lots of other styles to choose from here as well. There is the fox style, Lucas style, snell, tombstone rears, beehive style, oval, retro,.. you name it.



And then there are the indicator lights. They are the finishing touch when it comes to motorbike lights. Needless to say, it is best if they complement your other choices. You can go for racer, bullet, matte, Curva indicators or long stem bulbs. When it comes to ensuring utmost visibility, there's no debate - LEDs are the number one.

Mirror

There are two different types of motorcycle mirrors: those meant for the end of your bar and those that can be clamped anywhere on the handlebar. Now aesthetics is not the only variable here. Yes, you can go for Bradford, Oxford, Somerset, Devon or around moto mirrors, but good view of the rear is essential for your safety. So, go for mirrors that suit both the left and right side, mirrors that are adjustable and can be mounted on several positions.

Handlebars

These parts let you control the steering, so there's no space for improvisation when it comes to the technical specifications. Fortunately, they make them really tough and reliable these days, so you can relax and concentrate on finding an ergonomic model that is most comfortable for you.

And the style, of course. So you can go for British style handlebars, but also for low-ride, clubman, fat drag, euro style, high bend, superbike, and clip-on bars. It's all up to your preference and to the type of motorbike you have. Beware, whatever your favourite style is, a considerable amount of tweaking is to be expected before you can be totally satisfied with the position of the handlebars.

Grips

This is one of those motorbike parts where comfort, style and ergonomics rule. It allows you to express your personality like no other moto part. You can go for retro style, racer, foam, oval cut aluminium, jackhammer. If you want to make a statement Gran Turismo is the way to go.

Speedometer

Classic cafe racer style motorcycle speedometers are very popular. It features a built-in odometer as well as notification lights for oil and some sort of sign regarding the status of your high beam, neutral and indicator lights. They usually measure speeds up to 220 kilometres per hour.

Your sense of precision and style shines through this moto part as well. If you dislike the analog speedometers, you can go for a completely digital gadget with backlit LCD display and GPS. It's important to calibrate your speedometer to avoid wrong readings.

Foot Peg Rest

Those riding on four wheels can never relate, but having a good footrest is crucial on a motorbike. Some prefer a folding footpeg rest, while others don’t want to be bothered with adjusting the peg every time they mount the bike. If you are one of those blokes, just clamp mount a fixed peg.

Saddle Seat

Seats contribute a great deal to the looks of your motorbike, but also affect safety as uncomfortably seated rider is more likely to get into trouble. So, if you go for retro cafe racer seat assembly look for high-grade foam and a high-quality cover. Of course, before buying such models you have to make sure they are compatible with the motorcycle you have. You can also go for a sportster or for stitch scrambler motorcycle seat. If both of them can not be mounted on your bike, then don’t despair and choose a universal motorcycle single saddle seat with chrome springs and mounting bracket. Sometimes changing the seat hoop can allow you to mount a different kind of seat on your motor.

Helmet

Even though it's not installed on your motorbike, the helmet is essentially a part of it because you can't ride anywhere without it. When it comes to choosing a helmet, there are many options. To start with, make sure your helmet satisfies the Australian safety standards. Then, there are different styles of helmets to consider: full face, dual-sport, dirt, open face and half helmets.

As much as most of you would like to sport a badass helmet, it is very important to factor in the motorcycle model you have, the type of riding you do, and the places your bike spends most of its service life. You can wear a dual sport helmet while riding a Vespa scooter, no one will stop you from doing so even though it's a bit too much. But you will probably want to make sure your helmet is on pair with every other style-oriented motorcycle part you have.