jimisbell

I am doing a modification on the 2006 SC430 to get a more mellow and V8 sounding exhaust.
Back in the 60s and 70s I was changing exhaust systems and mufflers every two years. They didnt last because of the materials used in those days. Since 2000 I have not done any exhaust work on any of my cars. I attribute that to materials used these days. But I dont know what they use these days. I think my Lexus SC and LS have SS exhausts which would explain their long life (16 years and 18 years). My mechanic wants to use aluminized steel and claims it will last 10 to 15 years. Is SS better than Al Fe? Worth the extra cost? Are the exhausts on my two Lexi (plural for Lexus) SS?

wsvc206

Magnaflow

jimisbell

What? My question was about the materials used, not the system design. Basically, is SS better than Aluminized Steel and how much better. I already have my design, just want to decide on the materials.

oneround

Jim, I would pick stainless - as long as it was in an appropriate grade (pretty sure automotive mufflers are made using 304).

Any defect or deep scratch in an aluminized coating will cause the underlying steel to rust. Maybe not applicable for the SC, but I sure wouldn't want it for any vehicle going off road.

The two Lexus cars in your signature line had SS in their OEM form.