As anyone who has driven a powerful truck knows, the power and speed you can reach with a pumped-up engine and parts are enough to get you high on a glass of water. That's why the automobile parts and systems aftermarket is so strong and continues to expand and thrive. The demand for more efficiency and optimized performances, coaxing every ounce of HP and torque from the engine is an ever-growing demand.
The 5 Best Exhausts for 7.3 PowerStroke:
Best Exhaust for 7.3 PowerStroke
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One of these systems are exhausts for trucks, and the 7.3 Powerstroke Ford diesel truck is one of those super-powered trucks that can be pumped up to mega performance proportions.
A really good exhaust system will deliver up to 25HP power gains, as well as give your engine an extra 60 ft.lbs of torque combined with either a silent muffled engine or a deep rumbling roar of a pipe the only system.
An extra benefit from an exhaust system can include an increase in fuel optimization, give your engine an extra 1% to 2% of MPG efficiency.
In this brief guide, We will give you four of the best exhaust systems to pump up the performance of your Ford 7.3 Powerstroke diesel truck.
Best Exhaust for 7.3 Powerstroke Reviews:
If you're after what Magnaflow describes as deep performance sound, the Magnaflow Pro Series exhaust system might just be the perfect fit for your 7.3 PowerStroke truck. Priced similar to other choices on the market, the Magnaflow exhaust for the Ford F-250/F-350 comes with an aluminized steel construction and promises a sound that you'll not forget.
The cat-back exhaust has a single-side exit (from behind the passenger side), 4-inch tubing throughout the system, bolt-on installation, and an overall aggressive sound (aggressive from the outside, but moderate on the inside, claims Magnaflow).
Made with CNC precision robotic machinery, the exhaust also boasts dyno-proven performance. It's compatible with Ford F-250 Super Duty and F-350 Super Duty made with the model years 1999 - 2003 across different trims. A 1-year warranty will back your purchase. Keep in mind the exhaust system comes with a muffler but no exhaust tips. The company mentions that it has an emissions-legal design, but you can always check with the seller to be sure about that.
The MBRP 4" Turbo Back, Single Side exhaust is made for the 1999 - 2003 7.3 PowerStroke Ford F-250/F-350 trucks. It adds some power and torque, but without being too loud - since this is not a muffler delete option. Other effects that stand out for the exhaust include possible improvement in throttle response and even lower EGTs.
The exhaust system can add up to 18 hp and 28 ft/lb but will fit directly on to the OEM hangers, making it an easy DIY bolt-on job. MBRP maintains that the package includes all the necessary hardware as well. Installation takes about an hour and a half.
Backed by a 1-year warranty, the MBRP exhaust can only be fitted to vehicles without a catalytic convertor. It's made of aluminized steel, which helps to keep the price of the unit low, without hurting the overall build or fit. It has a single-side exit with a 4-inch pipe. Perfect upgrade to the standard exhaust on your 7.3 PowerStroke Ford? You bet!
The 7.3 PowerStroke isn't just a powerful diesel engine, it's clearly aimed at those looking at some serious driving - be it for work or leisure. So it's safe to say that the accessories or aftermarket parts you'd choose for it, will have to be as special if not more. The MBRP 4-inch exhaust makes for a strong case for itself in that regard.
This free-flow exhaust has a bolt-on installation made of aluminized steel and won't let you down when it comes to sound, either. This is a muffler delete pipe, so keep in mind that you're going to get a loud note with this. In addition to that, the company claims that up to 18 hp and 28 ft/lb can be added with the help of the system.
It's made for 1999 - 2003 7.3 PowerStroke engined Ford trucks (F-250/F-350). The system has a turbo-back and single-side-exit configuration, won't be compatible with trucks with a catalytic converter (so it's not made to be driven on public roads), and is backed by a 1-year warranty.
The best part about owning a truck is that you can put it to a variety of uses - and recreational (or occupational) off-roading is one strong area. You probably want your 7.3 PowerStroke to sound better when going off the road as well. That's why the MBRP 5" Turbo Back makes so much sense.
It's a muffler-free off-road-ready exhaust that is made of aluminized steel that not only handles difficult driving scenarios but makes the truck a little more powerful and even cooler when tackling the rough stuff. It adds up to 18 hp and 28 ft/lb, it's said to lower EGTs, and other more tangible improvements can be found in the pulling power and throttle response of the vehicle.
Like other MBRP products, it's backed by a 1-year warranty, and can be installed to any of the 1999 - 2003 7.3 PowerStroke engined trucks. It's not compatible with trucks with a catalytic converter, though.
Another popular choice for the 7.3 PowerStroke V8 diesel engine is the Diamond Eye exhaust system. Made of aluminized steel, it offers an improvement in both performance and sound. The turbo-back exhaust is also priced close to the competition, keeping it a reasonable choice even for those who don't want to spend extra on a new system.
Shipped along with the necessary hardware and hangers, the Diamond Eye exhaust system is made with CNC mandrel-bending machines, so you can expect a decent fit. In addition to that, the free-flow aspect means the exhaust will sound miles better than the stock unit. The tailpipe diameter, in this case, is 4 inches and it's made of aluminized steel, but you can opt for other sizes and/or other materials as well.
Among the vehicles equipped with the 7.3 PowerStroke diesel, the exhaust is compatible with the Ford E-350 Econoline made with the model years 1995 - 1997. You'll need to check with the seller about the warranty.
One of the more expensive choices for the 7.3 PowerStroke out there is the Banks Power Single Monster Exhaust System. The reason why it's expensive is the way it balances a good exhaust note with in-cabin comfort. That's done thanks to the expansion chamber that gets rid of the exhaust drone.
Other benefits include reduced backpressure (so better performance) and lower gas temperatures. The straight-through 4-inch diameter exhaust is made of stainless steel, so you can expect it to last really long. And a testament to that is the company's standard 5-year warranty. The exhaust also benefits from a muffler that offers more than double the stock exhaust's flow. Its double-walled design ensures the exterior mirror finish isn't ruined. The 5-inch exhaust tip adds a bit more points to its appearance quotient.
The Banks Power Monster Exhaust System is made for the 1999 and 2003 7.3 PowerStroke Ford trucks. Keep in mind that some models will require an extension pipe for the correct fit. It's made to be used with the onboard catalytic convertor if present. If you're looking at deleting that, this one isn't the exhaust for you.
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The MBRP aluminized steel single exhaust pipe system with a delete pipe. This kit replaces the muffler for 99-03 Ford 7.3L Powerstroke Diesel and is the perfect solution for both budget-friendly and optimized exhaust performance systems.
This is a 4" turbo-back kit; the exit location is on the passenger's side, it does not have a catalytic converter, so you cannot use it to replace a "green" exhaust system. This kit comes with all the parts and hardware and is easy to install.
Instruction SheetThe MagnaFlow diesel exhaust system includes an aluminized steel system with a 4" downpipe and a 5" main piping kit. The kit is installed with standard clamp and hooks and comes without a muffler, so the sound is a modified and magnified rumble.
This kit is good for all 99-07 Ford F-250/350 Super Duty 6.0/7.3L Powerstroke trucks.
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The aFE systems are all easy to install, using the clamp on and hooks system that matches the factory settings. These kits are all leak free sealed with a 4" downpipe and piping system.
They are used to replace all 1994-1997 Ford F-250/350 Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 7.3L trucks. The 4" mandrel construct is designed to deliver maximum optimization for torque, HP and fuel efficiency.
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The Silverline™ FS101409 Diesel Performance Exhaust System is a single system designed to deliver maximum optimization for your truck. It is designed for all 1999-2003 Turbo-Back 7.3 Ford Power Stroke F250/F350 2 and 4-wheel drive.
This exhaust kit is made of mandrel bent 409 stainless steel which increases your MPG's, lowers your EGT's and adds 13HP (tested). It is very easy to install, should be under 2 hours. The tip of the exhaust is polished for a better finish.
Installation Sheet
What's the best exhaust for 7.3 Powerstroke?
The 7.3 Powerstroke was available for a very short duration. But don't let that make you believe that there aren't any good aftermarket exhaust systems available for it. We've selected the top six examples to help you choose the best exhaust for 7.3 Powerstroke. To recap, we've included the top six exhausts here, each offering something unique.
For instance, the Banks Power Monster Exhaust makes sense for those who don't mind spending a little extra for a stainless steel exhaust. If you're looking at one for your Ford E-350 Econoline, the Diamond Eye exhaust is the one to go for. Our best choice is the Magnaflow Pro Series that has an overall aggressive sound, so if you're after a loud exhaust, this is the one for you. Alternatively, you can look at the MBRP Turbo Back No Muffler exhaust . For off-roaders, the MBRP Turbo Back Off-Road exhaust is our choice. Like other MBRP exhausts, it promises an increase in power and is backed by a warranty as well. But sitting 2nd to the top of our list is the MBRP 4" Turbo Back exhaust . It's made of aluminized steel, uses OEM hangers, and while it improves the sound, it won't be as loud as a muffler-free choice - making it all the more suitable for daily drivers.
Best Exhaust for 7.3 Powerstroke by Year - 1999, 2000, 2001
Exhaust Buying Tips
There are plenty of aftermarket exhaust systems to choose from, and the kits come from hundreds of suppliers. The only way to cut through the roughage and reach the quality items is to concentrate on a few key performance indicators (KPI's).
KPI's are what professional purchasing managers use to compare models with varied performance and price levels. By deciding which performance functions are most important to you, you can then chart all the competing models and discern which one is best for you.
Just for general knowledge, the "best" is not just objective; it is also subjective. Some people like louder sounds, others want quieter systems. Just this one function will decide whether you compare a muffler included system or not. Prices will vary accordingly.
What I can tell you is that there are some objective KPI's such as materials, finishes, and quality compliance that should be considered seriously with all purchases.
Regarding manufacturers, in all honesty, whether the item is made in the US or China doesn't make a difference, unless you want to contribute to US income.
The manufacturing ownership of the model determines the level of compliance with standards, so apart made in China using USA standards will be as better than the US made part not using compliance standards.
Now let's take a look at some of the key factors I mentioned:
MaterialAluminized Steel: These are heavy duty steel pipes that were dipped in an aluminum-silicon alloy dip and gave you great resistance to corrosion with a reasonable price. These are great for heavy duty off-road work.
409 Stainless Steel: This is the next step up, these are stainless steel pipes providing great protection from corrosion but do get a bit yellow when hot. These are great for pumping up your engine with a lighter design and used for rough and ready terrain work.
304 Stainless Steel: This is the best option, and costliest, this alloy has the highest nickel chromium content of the three alloys and provides the best corrosion resistance as well as least discoloration from use. These are good for pimping as well as pumping up your engine.
SoundThere are two options, with a muffler to reduce the sound levels, and you can really get some silent muffler options. Or without mufflers for that roaring rumble. Now, you have to consider the pipe design for the different rumbles you will get. Materials and design specifications affect the sound, and just like a trumpet or a flute, you can pump up the bass or leave in the treble.
StyleThe style is something that is totally subjective. You either like a chrome plated look, or a brushed nickel look, or perhaps you like the Mad Max look of red primer mixed with carbon and rust. Essentially, style is something you invest in for no other reason than showing off your ride.
You can invest in a set of double exhaust tips that can be added on to a single exhaust set, giving your kit, and if you add these to a double exhaust system, you get that overkill quad exhaust look.