It appears there’s a difference of opinion regarding the role of backpressure in exhaust systems. The perspective of experienced mechanic Mike Motoiq suggests that backpressure is generally considered detrimental, and that exhaust scavenging is the key to optimizing car engine performance. Let’s break down this viewpoint further in simpler terms.
For many years, there has been a common belief that an engine needs some level of backpressure to perform optimally.
This idea likely stems from early observations when engines were run without exhaust manifolds or open ports. In those cases, it seemed that adding an exhaust manifold improved engine performance.
However, it’s essential to clarify that what an engine truly needs is not backpressure, but rather an effective scavenging and vacuum system.
Every engine, regardless of its size or purpose, has a certain degree of “overlap” built into its camshaft design.
Overlap is the period during which both the intake and exhaust valves are open simultaneously. This overlap phase plays a crucial role in engine performance.
At this moment, when the piston is at the top of the exhaust stroke and about to begin its way down, the vacuum created by the exhaust system helps draw in the air-fuel mixture into the cylinder.
The notion of “tuned exhaust systems” comes into play here. These exhaust systems are carefully designed to optimize this scavenging process.
Think of them as finely tuned musical instruments. The specific shapes and lengths of the exhaust pipes are adjusted to create pressure waves that aid in pulling out old exhaust gases and making room for fresh air and fuel.
To clarify, the goal is not to create backpressure but to enhance scavenging. Even though exhaust manifolds may seem somewhat restrictive, they serve an essential purpose.
The manifold collects exhaust gases from individual cylinders and directs them to a single exit point.
This design helps create a vacuum, particularly during the overlap phase and assists in pulling in the intake mixture.
It’s important to size your car exhaust system appropriately for your engine’s characteristics, including its size and intended output.
An exhaust system that is too large can lead to a loss of torque and power due to a mismatch with the engine’s breathing characteristics.
In conclusion, the myth that engines need backpressure for performance is not accurate.
What engines truly benefit from is an exhaust system that optimizes scavenging, creating a vacuum effect to help draw in the intake mixture effectively. The goal is a free-flowing exhaust system that maximizes cylinder filling, leading to improved engine performance.