H2 Exhaust Systems

[Steve R]

Sorry Jim....the owner of the shop was all about performance exhaust and did not offer any info on intake modification. I frankly think GM wouldn't choke down their intake such that it would seriously inhibit the ability of the engine to a degree that would compromise performance.

The intake is all about two things: filtering the air such that abrasive and damaging debris not be allowed into the intake AND reducing the noise coming from that end of the engine.

Believe it or not, you'll notice a 'horn' or extension hovering just over the fan...this plastic-extruded cavity (tied to the intake) is solely there for the purpose of noise-reduction.

As far as air filtration, I've been offroading and believe me...there's lots of dust and stuff that you really want to keep out of your engine. The filter box has a large filter. I suppose an aftermarket filter could offer improved flow, but you'd think that must mean a less discriminating filter...which ideally would mean less fine a media. I'd choose engine longevity over a few horsepower any day. [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img]

Many of these aftermarket kits also use "cool air" which should also help for several reasons. Reasons that in theory make sense...but in practice...who knows. [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_confused.gif[/img] [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif[/img]

It's a toss-up. I put my faith in the engineers who manufacture the beast. I realize it's fun to modify and play with customizing our new toys, but I remain entirely skeptical...probably cause my racquetball-buddy used to own a performance shop and he told me most the bolt-on hop-ups are BS. [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_redface.gif[/img]

The H2 isn't about being fast or fuel-efficient....why mess with the dynamic. By the way...if you retract your side-view mirrors inwards when on the freeway, you'll pick up 35 more horsepower AND increase your mileage 4 mpg!

DON'T BELIEVE THE HYPE [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif[/img]