Hot Rods Let's Talk Exhaust X-pipes

Help me decide if I want to put an X-pipe in my exhaust on a vehicle I'm working on. Exhaust currently is 350 SBC with 2.5 inch duals with both traveling down one side of the driveshaft, to two mufflers before the rearend, then up and over that side axle tube, where it then splits to be more traditional pair of exhaust tips separated on each side of center. Being the pipes run close by each other, I can add an X-pipe pretty easily. But do I want to?

I understand the performance benefits of an X-pipe. It's also better than a straight 90 degree crossover. But how does it affect the dual sound? I like the traditional dual exhaust note lack of symmetry sound because of the uneven exhaust pulses on each side. Does an X-pipe make it quieter or louder? Does X-pipe make it sound more like a uniform sound sort of like a big single tip would be? I've never really had any vehicle with an X-pipe, or paid enough attention to a vehicle with one to fully know what effect it has. Thanks for any help and discussion.

 

I am also getting ready to run all new exhaust on my ‘40 Olds, and am curious about the X-pipe.
Also wondering why you would run both exhaust pipes down one side…

 

My research has always come up as the x pipe making for a high pitched exhaust sound, kinda sounds closer to a V6.

 

Because there is fuel tank between the frame and driveshaft on other side.

 

It will even the sound out. I personally like it.

 

I think I read on another thread here that, in general, X pipe is higher pitched, H pipe is lower.

 

ive always liked the sound of true duals, even with a loss in power.

 

Unless you have a very high performance power plant that will be used regularly for extreme acceleration, I don't think an X is of any benefit.
Dual pipes have a traditional sound.

 

In my experience, an X-pipe quietens the exhaust note. It also makes the droning sound go away. If you drive long distances, it makes the experience more enjoyable. It's the difference of yelling to be heard over engine noise, or being able to carry on a conversation. Just my two cents from personal experience!

 

X2 on drone reduction / elimination. Not an issue though if you don't have a droning problem!

Chris

 

If you want the sound of true separated duel exhaust sound you need to block off the exhaust heat crossover in the intake.

 

I had an x-pipe installed on my hipo 289 (dynoed at 310hp) connected to a top loader 4 speed. I can best describe the sound out of the tailpipes as "mushy". I kept it for about a month removed the x, and went back to true duals. Without the X, the exhaust note was louder, with a more distinct bark.

 

Thanks to all for the replies. I think it will stay as traditional separate duals and no X-pipe. Engine is not real performance. No droning problem, and tailpipes all the way to back minimize the noise inside.

 

With your description, I think you made the right choice. I did want to mention that with your setup, it wouldn't follow normal rules anyway due to the very short distance between the 2 pipes making the X shape very narrow, and that one head pipe and one tail pipe is going to be much longer than the other due to routing. Think a trombone getting extended.

As for exhaust, it's a deep rabbit hole with most systems down to taste. What it sounds like in person and at different speeds will vary and be hard to capture in video. However, there are a couple guys that are big into the NASCAR scream achieved by modifying the exhaust. On Youtube, thecraig909 has one on his pickup and Stapleton42 has done a bunch of videos on this for street and track use. This will get you noticed, but I'd guess the cops would not be impressed.
EDIT: search for 'boom tubes' for this stuff I mentioned.