So I recently bought ART Test pipes for my 04 Z that retail at $600. while I picked them up for $160 used. Though the resonators have been re-welded pretty crappy. So Im gathering quotes to get them re-fabricated.

But ... Im starting to think if its worth it.

Pros:
- HP gains
- More aggressive sound
- Cheaper

Cons:
- Possibly too loud (attract local PD)
- Smell
- Exhaust fumes staining the rear bumper
- Have to swap for smog every two years.

ORRRR should I try and get my money back out of these.
and just buy Berk HFC as my Xmas present?

Pros:
- A little less HP gains than TPs
- no smell
- Less likely to get a ticket
- Can still pass smog

Cons:
- Obviously costing more.
- Have to replace after 25K miles when the core goes through

Can I have some of your personal opinions?
I live in southern California and we have a reputations for strict PD
But am I over thinking this and should just run with the test pipes that I already have.
Or try and sell them while waiting till xmas to get the HFCs that Im going to have to replace in 25k miles down the road.?

Im in a real screwed position right now. especially because I already bought the TPs

-Niko

 

Never seen this debate so sorry I cant help. At least its in the right section. .......

 

I think that you are over thinking the situation. Your choices as I see it are to keep what you've got and save a little money but have the hassle every couple of years switching over to your OEM cats. Or, spend a few dollars more and fit high flow cats that once fitted then that is it, no worries about PD, smog test, tickets or refitting OEM cats for a few days every couple of years. You could sell the ART's and put the $'s toward Berks. IMO I'd go for the second option, it seems to offer an all round solution with the only ballache being selling the ART's and a slight loss of power. Are the performance gains/losses going to be that noticeable? Will your butt dyno notice?

 

Just sell and get Berk TPs. Little louder than ART pipes, but you will see the same gains and they're about $400 cheaper lol..

 

HFC fo sho

SMOG passing and better for the environment

I personally don't think that Test Pipes should be on any street used car.

because race car? lol

You'll be happier with the HFC

 

So who wants to buy some ART pipes for $160 eh?!?! Haha
I hate to fork out the extra money while going through the hassle of selling these art pipes now .
But you guys hold some good points and I'd rather not have grey hairs at my age haha

 

would these be HR Art pipes or DE art pipes?

 

GreyZ: DE