If you’re reading this article, you’re likely interested in enhancing the sound and performance of your Ram 1500 truck with an aftermarket exhaust system. With numerous systems available from a variety of manufacturers, there’s no shortage of options. Here, we’ll break down the different categories of exhaust systems and help you find the best fit for your needs. Let’s explore the choices, from high-end systems to cost-effective retrofit options.
1. High-End Systems ($1,400-$1,900)
High-end exhaust systems are predominantly cat-back, meaning they replace everything from the catalytic converter back. These systems, such as those offered by Borla and Stainless Works, are constructed from the highest quality materials, usually 304 stainless steel. Sometimes they include additional engineering in the muffler and dual-wall exhaust tips. TIG welding is common in this category, ensuring a high-quality build that provides moderate performance gains and a robust, aggressive exhaust note.
Key Features
- Superior materials (304 stainless steel)
- Enhanced muffler engineering
- High-quality welding (Sometimes TIG)
- Premium exhaust tips
Popular Brands
- Borla ATAK Dual Exhaust System
- Stainless Works Redline Series Dual Exhaust System
2. Mid-Range Systems ($900-$1,400)
Most popular are the mid-range systems for the Ram 1500s. Brands like Magnaflow, Corsa, and Flowmaster dominate this segment. These systems typically use 409 stainless steel, which keeps costs lower while still providing durable and corrosion-resistant components. They offer various options for sound volume and tone, catering to different preferences.
Key Features
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Durable materials (409 stainless steel)
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Many options to choose from
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Fairly cost-effective
Popular Brands
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Magnaflow Street Series Dual Exhaust System
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Flowmaster American Thunder Dual Exhaust System
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Corsa Performance Sport Dual Exhaust System
3. Retrofit Systems ($400-$800)
Retrofit systems are a budget-friendly option for Ram owners. These systems modify the factory exhaust by replacing the muffler, resonators, and exhaust tips while keeping the O.E.M. mandrel-bent tubing. The factory Ram exhaust tubing is premium quality mandrel bent 409 stainless so this approach provides the look, performance, and sound of a cat-back system without the higher cost.
Key Features
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Durable materials (409 stainless steel)
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Varied sound and tone options
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Extremely cost-effective
Popular Brands
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Mufflex retrofit mufflers
4. Chinese-Made and Budget Systems ($300-$800)
There are many knock-off systems available on sites like Amazon and eBay and American Truck, often marketed as budget-friendly alternatives. While these can be tempting due to their low prices, they typically lack the durability and performance of more reputable brands. Brands in this category include Total-Flow, Proven Ground and Pypes.
Considerations:
While these systems may be inexpensive, they often compromise on quality and may not provide the same performance gains or longevity as more established brands. They usually do not sound as good and tend to drone. You will save a little money on these offerings but plan on replacing them in a couple of years.
Key Features
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Thin wall 409 stainless or galvanized mild steel tubing
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Less technology and packing inside mufflers
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Lowest cost with limited life span
Popular Brands
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Total Flow
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MBRP
Top Pick
B2 offers a sound level and tone to satisfy most everyone's preference. The following chart is the B2 offerings from quietest to loudest. As the systems get louder the tone also raises (quieter=deep rumble ... Louder=higher pitch)
