Exhausts & performance chips

[baybilly]

I've got a 2001 Cruiser and was wondering if anyone has put on an aftermarket exhaust system. If so what kind, how do you like it (performance wise) and does it sound like a mad bumble bee? I read somewhere that Flowmaster had an exhaust that fit the Cruiser and it had a low rumble to it. Secondly, on one of those auction sites there is a performance chip that is supposed get you 20 more hp. They are cheap, like less than $10 cheap. Sounds too good to be true if you ask me BUT it still got my interest. Does anyone have any insight on this?

[Sci-Fi]

There are a lot of popular aftermarket exhaust systems. Would suggest you go to a few PT shows or greet and meets and listen to them. The biggest problem would be in the 3k-4k rpm range and the "drone" noise. Some systems control it better than others, but it is a personal perference. It bothers some and may be acceptable to others. None of the current aftermarket exhausts have the bumble bee sound. I have the Remus system installed, but I wanted a quieter freeflow system. Borla, Bassini, BTG, Scottsdale, Heartthrob, Flowmaster, etc. are the most popular systems installed. A custom made system can be actually cheaper, even if you specify stainless steel and many muffler shops will work with you if you are having drone/excessive noise problems or want a particular muffler and tips.

The under $10 "performance chip" is a ripoff. All you get is a resistor and some instructions on how to install it and it will not give you 20hp or any additional hp for that matter and has been known to cause drivability and other problems. Jet Performance is another ripoff and their add-on module doesn't work/engineered/programed correctly on the PT. You would be better off going to Kenne Bell or ASE and have them reprogram your computer. Have to use premium fuel though if you have it done. If you live closeby either, I would have the reprogramming done on the dyno instead of shipping them your unit, if you want the maximum performance for your car. And if the dealer decides to flash/update your computer during routine service, you would lose all the performance programming and revert back to stock specs.

[nmbluept]

Hi, I have installed the Borla single cat back exhaust and the Borla header on my 2001 Patriot Blue Limited Edition PT Cruiser. The exhaust is a bit louder than I might prefer and can produce an annoying resonance at some RPM's. The exhaust mods in addition to a PowerAid throttle body spacer and a K & N drop air filter seem to have increased the power of my car to a noticable degree. To be honest when I took delivery of the car in July of 2000 the car scared me - the lack of power was a concern that has required a change in driving habits.
All of the "performance chip" mods available seem to be either outragously expensive or too low priced to be much more than a scam. I suspect that in order to really improve engine performance one needs to invest in a trurbo or supercharger and maybe some internal engine modifications (cam shaft??).
There are several good Internet sites dedicated to supplying after market parts for your PT Cruiser, in fact the large number gives the consumer ample opportunity to "shop around" for the best price.
Good luck and Keep on Cruzin

[MN121995bird]

my friend has some hedman headers and a jegs exhaust. The jegs exhaust was pretty cheap ($330 or so) compared to the other ones out there. And it sounds pretty nice. Pretty deep for a 4 banger. HE has an air raid intake and throttle body spacer and has noticed a lot of improvement. As for chips, he has searched around and has found nothing expect for having your comp sent out and reprogrammed. Or you drive out and Kenne Bell will install the computer and dyno tune it with your mods to get the ultimate power increase. I've heard stage II cams with the turbo intake manifold yield some awesome results.

[cowtnadv]

I have a Flowmaster system on mine and I love it, it is louder than the OEM but not real loud! I did notice a difference in acceleration. You can hear the system here -

http://www.flowmastermufflers.com/cg...j4ax&mv_pc=129

Go to the middle of the page and play the sound.

good luck!