8.1 Modifications

[rvr2352]

Has anyone added a cat-back exh sys or done anything else to add to the performance of the 8.1?

[rvr2352]

Has anyone added a cat-back exh sys or done anything else to add to the performance of the 8.1?

[YosemiteBobR]

Doesn't seem to be a lot of room in their for different configurated items. Besides the engine runs great now. If I was to do something it would not be until the 7 year warranty I have on it is over and by then I'll have a newer one. Guess my answer would be no.

[Art D]

rvr2352,
Don't you already have independent dual exhausts from the manifolds to the tailpipes? Mine does.

[Itasca SC]

Mine two, um too

[rvr2352]

Yup, got duals but cat-back employs engineered mufflers to reduce back-presure. Just wondered if anyone examined the option. Guess not...Thanks anyway. Steve

[YosemiteBobR]

Steve, If you decide to do it I would be interested in the results.

Bob

[LandHo]

Banks and Gibson both have cat back system for 8.1

[rvr2352]

Has anyone use the Banks or Gibson systems?

[DriVer]

We have read many threads about aftermarket engine systems and for the money they don't seem to yield a great deal of return.

I recently spoke with a person that has a Banks Power Pack and his wife admitted that the exhaust note is elevated and noticeable. Calculating MPGs yielded no change from stock. The owner did claim perceptually more power however we have seen threads here that testify no significant gain in power until the upper end of the power band.

The current exhaust system features dual 3 inch exhaust pipes. Comparing this system for example to a pickup truck, there's more pipe on the Workhorse in order to dump exhaust but the p/utrk has a shorter system. The mufflers on the Workhorse are already low restriction. I'm sure that they could be made "lower" restriction in aftermarket but hey you can do anything if the price is right.

[LandHo]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by DriVer:
I recently spoke with a person that has a Banks Power Pack and his wife admitted that the exhaust note is elevated and noticeable. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

They must have an earlier version of the muffler. Have them call Banks and get the NEW quieter muffler. I did and it sounds wonderful. I won't get into a huge discussion about the benefits...but like many things we add-on to our MH;
Is it better? yes (IMO)
Is it worth it? ??
Must I have it? ??
Can you survive without it? probably

As usual, if I say "buy it" there will be someone who says "don't". So the decision is yours, get it if you want it.

[Jeff H]

We have 2001 Itasca Sunrise 30' 8.1 Workhorse with Banks system. Not only did the Banks system 'cure' the spark plug wire burning situation, it has enabled us to tow a 24' boat over some grades at 55 MPH. Yes, the exhaust noise is a bit louder, but we don't even notice it anymore. This coach runs away when not towing.

[Teach]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by LandHo:

Is it better? yes (IMO)
Is it worth it? ??
Must I have it? ??
Can you survive without it? probably

As usual, if I say "buy it" there will be someone who says "don't". So the decision is yours, get it if you want it. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

LandHo, I'd be interested in knowing what benefits you have seen with the Bank's system.

[DriVer]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Teach:
I'd be interested in knowing what benefits you have seen with the Bank's system. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>One thing that we have seen using the BANKS is a large sucking sound when your money leaves your wallet. What we haven't seen is a mpg improvement that would justify the cost.