A straight pipe is installed on a diesel truck by removing existing components from the exhaust system, such as the exhaust pipe, muffler and cat, and replacing them with a customized straight pipe.
Although many truck owners want to use straight pipes to gain more horsepower, they often don’t install them because of the complicated process.
Therefore, I have outlined a simple and easy method to straight pipe your diesel truck in the article. Whether you have ever changed your truck’s pipe or not, you will find the guide easy to understand and follow.
So let’s get started without any further delay.
What Does It Mean To Straight Pipe A Truck?
Straight piping a truck means removing the existing exhaust pipe and inserting a new straight-shaped pipe. This also means that the exhaust gas is released differently than before.
The gas is usually released from the exhaust manifold after passing through a resonator, muffler, and catalytic converter.
However, all of them are removed when a straight pipe is installed. As a result, the gas will flow through the pipe without interference from a resonator or cat.
Easy Steps To Straight Pipe A Diesel Truck
Here are the five steps you can follow to straight pipe your beloved diesel truck. Before you begin the procedure, make sure you have the right equipment that I have listed below.
Required Tools
Step- 1: Checking the Current Pipe
The first thing you have to do is check the existing pipe of the exhaust system. Different trucks have different kinds of pipes that are built differently.
You can easily identify what kind of pipe the system requires by inspecting the existing pipe properly.
The primary goal is to find the ideal cutting spots during the inspection. Remember that the spot should never be near the catalytic converter in any way.
Step- 2: Locating the Joint and Hanging Position
The pipe should have joints. If you find one, unscrew the bolts and nuts to unlock it.
It is important to take the correct measurements before cutting the pipe. Hence, measure the joint spot to the end of the pipe.
As part of this step, it is also crucial to find a suitable location for hanging the straight pipe.
I wouldn’t recommend reusing the hanging spot that the current pipe uses. Due to the shape, straight pipes require an entirely different hanging point.
Step- 3: Detaching the Existing Pipe
Depending on the type of attachment, you can remove the pipe in two ways.
If the pipe is attached to the exhaust system with nuts, unscrew those to remove it.
Nonetheless, some pipes are welded with joints. In that case, the pipe must be cut off the exhaust system with a reciprocating saw.
While cutting, you need to remove a number of other components, including the catalytic converter.
Step- 4: Shaping the New Pipe
Remember the measurement I asked you to take in the second step? Based on that measurement, cut the new aftermarket pipe you bought.
Since you are straight piping the vehicle, it would be best to cut it straight. However, if you are unable to cut the pipe straight, you can make any kind of cut you like.
It is better if the pipe has as little bending as possible.
Step- 5: Attaching the Straight Pipe
This is probably the moment you have been waiting for!
Grab your welding machine and attach the customized straight pipe. Ensure that the pipe is attached securely to the exhaust system.
There you have it, your straight piped diesel truck!
Benefits To Straight Pipe A Diesel Truck
Trucks, mostly diesel ones, would benefit greatly from straight pipes. Let me explain how.
1. Better Mileage and Fuel Economy
One of the common issues with diesel trucks is their poor fuel economy. The DPF and NOx sensor located in the exhaust system can cause this issue.
A straight pipe improves fuel efficiency by removing these components.
2. Performance Boost
Most people straight pipe their trucks because they want to enjoy the extra boost in performance. The improved performance is largely due to the pipe increasing the truck’s horsepower.
3. Enhanced Sound
The muffler suppresses the original sound of your vehicle. A straight pipe removes that muffler and unleashes the diesel engine’s raw and heavy sound.
If you prefer to hear the real sound of the engine, there is no other option but to straight pipe the ride.
Is Straight Piping A Diesel Truck Illegal?
Some states allow straight pipes on diesel trucks, while others strictly prohibit them.
Even if you get by with it, you are likely to get a ticket for the loud noise created by the straight piped truck.
Another major concern relates to straight-piped diesel trucks releasing excessive black smoke. There are also legal penalties for it.
To learn more about if straight pipes are legal or not, check out this article where I explained everything in detail.
How Much Does It Cost To Straight Pipe A Diesel?
Buying a decent straight pipe for your diesel truck will cost you around $300. Many motorheads prefer to have their pipes tuned according to their vehicle. An average tuner will cost over $250.
Keep in mind that not everyone is capable of installing the pipe themselves. Some will require professional assistance.
In total, the cost can easily exceed $600.
Also Read: Can You Straight Pipe A Truck With DEF?
To Sum Up
I sincerely hope you will succeed in straight-piping your diesel truck after following this simple yet effective instruction.
Prior to straight-piping your vehicle, make sure you are aware of the laws that you are likely to break. You should also ensure you have the necessary funds.
