I'm having issues with my exhaust... Decided to upgrade the exhaust components on my 95 Civic and now it seems to lack power. Replaced my stock exhaust with a Pacesetter 2pc header, new o2 sensor as well as a hi-flow pacesetter cat and it sounds as if there is a leak in the cat area. So I took it in to a muffler shop and had them inspect and they couldn't find anything. What on earth could be causing this?? Any suggestions as to what I the next step would be? Here's a list of aftermarket items that are currently installed. If any of these installments would be the cause, please advise:

AEM Short Ram Intake
Pacesetter 2pc Header
Pacesetter Hi-Flow Cat
5zigen Bolt on Muffler (not sure if that makes any diff)
MSD 8mm Ignition Wires
Denso Iridium Spark Plugs

*another tech advised upgrading the distributor or chuck the MSD's and go to NGK's since jap plug wires perform better with jap made components

Just had a compression test done, reset timing and idle...However, by the airy sound it seems to me there is a leak somewhere. If so, would this cause damage? Also with swapping my exhaust, should I be upgrading my fuel rail, injectors etc... If someone could give me a few pointers it would be much appreciated. Thanx!

Hal

 

you sure you're not just hearing the hiss from your intake? lol. if i wasn't hella busy this week i'd offer to take a listen as i'm in sac...but school's got me tied up pretty bad this week and next. sorry.

 

Hehe...Nope, it's not the hiss from the intake though an intake is a tad noisier, but not annoying noisy. As I hang out of the door and stick my head under the driver side I can hear it directly underneath. Sounds as if it's coming from the Cat which I took it in and had everything inspected and they said it was all gravy. Anyhow, I do appreciate the possible consideration of taking a look at it. If I do not find a solution I can keep ya informed. Once again thank you, and good luck with school...Take it easy!

Haley

 

Yep, I've been through the whole paper gasket situation and I've definitely learned my lesson. Tried one the first time, then doubled them up and still didn't work. So I ordered the copper gasket, applied some sealer, and tightened the crap out of it. Aware that with the two piece you have to make sure all bolts are evenly tightened, same with the Cat. I had to have the pipe cut where the donut slips on in order for it to seal properly. When I took it in, they said everything was very well sealed up. Though when I rev it up as I'm hanging out the door to stick my head under to listen, I hear the noise directly underneath where the Cat is located. I'm wondering if the cat is just a piecer or something which would suck because it's brand new. Anywho, thank you for your input and I'm definitely looking forward to learning a bit more about upgrades etc...If there is anything else you could think of, I'm all ears! Take it easy!

Haley