Gibson Super Truck Exhaust  Installation

For the 5.7 HEMI Ram

By Mark Simonds

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Editor, HemiTruckClub.com

 

The Gibson Super Truck exhaust was a fairly easy install, utilizing basic hand tools and mechanical knowledge.  The system is designed to fit perfectly to the existing factory exhaust hangers, and requires only one “U” clamp (included in package).  The hardest part of the install is the removal of the factory muffler and tailpipe assembly.  Using a pneumatic cutting wheel is your best bet, and it will still take close to an hour for the entire removal of the factory system. 

The instructions call for cutting the pipe exactly 12” back from the catalytic converter.  After removing the old muffler and pipe, the Gibson slid right in and the hanger brackets fit perfectly.  The weight of the factory system was approximately 25 pounds heavier than the new Gibson system.  The Gibson system exits the truck to the passenger side, in front of the rear tire.  Chrome tips stamped “GIBSON” are also included in the package.  GIBSON Tips are 100% polished 304 stainless steel, which will dramatically outlast chrome!  

The sound of the Hemi starting up after installation was incredible… the immediate reaction was to “grunt” like Tim Allen on Home Improvement.  The rumble at idle brought back memories of “the good old days”, and the sound of the Gibson at 3000 rpm down the highway makes the statement “get the Hell out of my way!”  You will definitely notice an improvement in performance, and gas mileage will not be reduced by this installation.  Interior cab noise is fairly high, but not high enough to cause headaches or irate spouses.  You will have to turn your stereo volume up though…

Purchase date:  April 2003

Install time:  1-3 hours (depending on cutting tools available)

Tools required:  Standard socket/wrench set, pneumatic cutting wheel or hacksaw.

Difficulty level (1-5): 2

Horsepower/Torque gains (rear wheel): 15 hp/20 ft-lbs (specifically for 5.7 HEMI)

Sound level (1-10):  10

Purchase link: www.bestdarnparts.com

Purchase price:  $309.00 with free shipping

Purchase vendor:  Best Darn Parts

Hemi RAM Applications:

#6513 – fits 2002/3 Ram 2500 QC Short Bed

#6514 – fits 2002/3 Ram 1500 Std cab short bed

#6521 – fits 2002/3 Ram 1500 QC short bed

Where Does The Power Come From? (excerpts from www.gibsonperformance.com )

There is a 34% (or more) exhaust restriction in the typical stock muffler. Gibson Super-Flow mufflers only have about a 5% restriction because they “custom power tune” every muffler specifically to each vehicle. Other brands of aftermarket mufflers have between a 10% and 20% restriction. That is why Gibson consistently outperforms the competition on laboratory “flow bench tests” and, more importantly, when you want hill climbing, stump pulling power and torque!  Another contributing factor is the mandrel bent pipes they use. Through “mandrel bending” the opening diameter of the pipe is kept constant, even through the bends. This consistent opening size allows the exhaust pulse to flow smoothly without power robbing restriction or backup.  Super Truck exhaust not recommended for towing.

 

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