For those looking to upgrade their vehicle’s exhaust system for better performance and sound, Flowmaster’s Hushpower mufflers offer an enticing best-of-both-worlds option. As an avid truck enthusiast, I recently installed Hushpower mufflers on my own lifted F-150 and was blown away by the results. In this post, I’ll share my first-hand experience with these mufflers and everything you need to know if you’re considering them for your own ride.
What is Flowmaster Hushpower Technology?
Most mufflers are focused only on sound deadening, using absorbent materials that dampen noise at the expense of decreased exhaust flow and power. Other performance mufflers go to the opposite extreme, using a straight-through design for maximum flow but producing an obnoxious sound in the process.
Hushpower represents a smarter approach that delivers the best of both worlds. Flowmaster’s patented technology uses a chambered and louvered design that allows maximum exhaust flow for optimized horsepower and torque while still reducing noise through reflection and cancellation of sound waves.
In simple terms, Hushpower gives you quiet operation when you want it and aggressive performance when you need it. The specially engineered internals are the key, allowing exhaust to flow freely during acceleration while muting unwanted resonance, vibration, and interior droning.
How Hushpower Differs from Other Flowmaster Mufflers
While all Flowmaster mufflers are performance oriented, most of their mufflers tend to be on the louder, more aggressive end of the spectrum. Favorites like the Flowmaster 40 Series and Super 10 are renowned for their deep, muscular exhaust tones.
The Hushpower represents Flowmaster’s next-generation technology to give enthusiasts the best of both worlds in one package. Hushpower delivers the same free-flowing performance as Flowmaster’s Super 10 but with interior noise reduction comparable to their Ultra Street design.
So while traditional Flowmasters are built for maximum flow and aggressive sound, the Hushpower flips the script by keeping interior resonance in check. It’s the perfect choice if you want power gains without interior droning.
Which Vehicles are Compatible with Hushpower Mufflers?
One of the biggest advantages of the Hushpower is its versatility. This muffler design is engineered as a direct bolt-on replacement for OEM mufflers on a wide range of trucks, SUVs, cars, and even motorcycles.
Specific application guides on Flowmaster’s website show compatibility with popular domestic trucks like the F-150, Silverado 1500, RAM 1500 along with SUVs and Jeeps spanning Suburban, Tahoe, Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, and more.
There are also direct-fit Hushpower kits available for muscle cars like the Camaro, Charger, Challenger, Mustang GT and imports including the 370Z, BRZ, WRX STI. No matter what you drive, chances are there’s a Hushpower option to give your vehicle an aggressive exhaust note when you want it without annoying cabin droning.
Upgrading My F-150 with Hushpower Mufflers
As the owner of a lifted 2015 F-150 FX4 with a 5.0L V8, I was eager to upgrade from the stock exhaust system to something with a more muscular tone. However, I wanted to avoid aftermarket mufflers that would drone too loudly in the cabin over long highway drives.
After researching options, I decided the Flowmaster Hushpower was the best solution for my needs. I opted for the Hushpower 3 chambered muffler kit designed specifically for the 2015 F-150 5.0L V8.
The installation process was straightforward enough to tackle myself in about 3 hours. I put the truck up on jack stands, removed the old OEM mufflers, and installed the new Hushpower system. There were no clearance issues or modifications needed thanks to the direct bolt-on design.
The Sound and Performance Benefits of Hushpower
After getting the new Hushpower system installed on my truck, I was eager to fire it up and see how it performed. Right from startup, I could tell the idle had a deeper and more refined tone over stock. There were no excessive resonances or drone audible in the cabin at idle.
As I accelerated onto the highway, the performance side of the mufflers really came alive. There was no muffling of power during hard acceleration runs, allowing the V8 to really stretch its legs. The sound under power was sublime – every bit as muscular and commanding as the Flowmaster mufflers I heard on other enthusiast trucks.
Yet as I settled into a highway cruise, the cabin became much quieter than expected. Despite the brawny sound outside, the interior was quite livable for long drives. Even under deceleration, the Hushpower mufflers maintained a refined rumble without obnoxious popping or cracking noises.
How Hushpower Technology Reduces Exhaust Noise
So how does this muffler design make such aggressive performance sound outside while remaining so hushed inside the cabin? It comes down to Flowmaster’s expert use of chambers and louvers along with insulation.
The Hushpower utilizes a straight-through, non-restrictive core to maintain power. Surrounding it are two chambers on each muffler that use resonance cancellation to eliminate drone. Strategically placed louvers connect the chambers to further dampen frequencies.
Sound absorbing materials coat the interior to prevent unwanted resonance from developing. Together, all these elements work in harmony to provide a straight shot for exhaust gasses to escape while attenuating noise.
The result is an experience that rivals having aftermarket mufflers for power and exterior sound with OEM mufflers for interior comfort. Truly, the best of both worlds!
Hushpower Muffler Sizes and Sound Profiles
Hushpower mufflers are available in a range of inlet/outlet sizes and configurations to match various vehicles. For my F-150, I went with the 3″ dual in/dual out muffler option designed specifically for the 5.0L V8 trucks.
However, Flowmaster offers various sizing options from 2.25″ up to 5″ inlets and outlets to accommodate different engine power levels and vehicles. Dual inlet vs single inlet configurations provide some sound tuning ability as well.
For those wanting a bit more aggressive sound, Flowmaster’s Super HP2 version uses a different tuning with two chambers instead of three. This provides a louder exterior sound while still reducing interior resonance. So you can really customize the end result based on your preference.
How Much Does a Hushpower System Cost?
Given its patented design and outstanding performance, the Hushpower isn’t cheap – but I found it to be an excellent value given the dual nature of this muffler. A complete kit for a typical V8 truck or muscle car will be around $400 to $600 depending on the specific application.
Yes, that’s more than a basic glasspack muffler. However, you’re getting OEM-level interior comfort combined with performance muffler sound in one package. When viewed from that perspective, the Hushpower really can’t be beat.
You can sometimes save a few bucks by buying universal Hushpower mufflers and fabricating your own piping. However, I went with a vehicle-specific Flowmaster kit to get a true bolt-on installation. Check retailers like Summit Racing and JEGS for the best deals.
Where to Buy Hushpower Mufflers
The Hushpower line is sold through many online and local retailers specializing in performance automotive parts. I prefer to buy directly from Summit Racing since they carry the full range of Flowmaster products with guaranteed compatibility for your car.
Other good online options include JEGS, CARiD, and Mr. Exhaust. Or you can buy directly from Flowmaster as well. I’d call local muffler shops too – many carry Flowmaster products and some offer package deals on install labor if you purchase the mufflers from them.
Hushpower Sound Levels vs Other Flowmasters
To give you an idea of how the Hushpower compares, here are published sound level ratings (measured in decibels) directly from Flowmaster:
- Hushpower – 77 dB
- Flowmaster 40 Series – 80 dB
- Flowmaster Super 44 – 90 dB
- Flowmaster Super 10 – 100 dB
As you can see, the Hushpower runs 3 db quieter than Flowmaster’s 40 series street muffler and a full 23 dB quieter than their wide-open Super 10 muffler. That’s a massive difference in both cabin experience and overall sound levels.
Yet as I experienced, the Hushpower still produces an impressively bold sound outside the vehicle with none of the annoying drone inside. It’s a win-win combination.
Installation Tips and How-To Guide
While every vehicle is slightly different, the general process for installing Hushpower mufflers is straightforward enough for DIYers with some mechanical ability and experience working under a vehicle.
Here are some quick tips for getting the job done smoothly:
- Use ramps or jack stands for access – don’t rely on a standard floor jack alone. Safety first!
- Spray penetrating oil on all exhaust fasteners a day before starting. This prevents snapped bolts.
- Always use high temperature exhaust gasket sealant during reassembly. Prevents exhaust leaks.
- Double check clearances between the new muffler and drive components. Some adjustments may be needed.
- Plan on an afternoon for the job. Working with exhaust systems is slower than it looks. Don’t rush!
- Have an extra set of hands around for positioning the mufflers during final install. Makes things much easier.
If tackling this project yourself, be sure to give the system a thorough shake-down over several drives to check for leaks or rattling issues. But when done properly, the DIY route can save hundreds of dollars in labor fees.
Warranty Coverage on Hushpower Mufflers
Flowmaster provides a solid limited lifetime warranty on all Hushpower mufflers that covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty is fully transferable if you sell the vehicle as well.
The coverage excludes issues stemming from improper installation, collisions, modifications to the muffler itself, and general wear after extended use. Damage from off-roading or racing activity is not covered either.
So while not exactly bumper-to-bumper coverage, the lifetime warranty does provide excellent protection against early failures or manufacturing defects. For truck owners like myself who plan to put a lot of miles on their Hushpower exhaust, this warranty was essential.
Professional Installation – Is it Necessary?
While the Hushpower mufflers themselves bolt directly into place for most applications, you’ll need to decide whether having a professional shop complete the installation is right for you.
The pros of paying an experienced muffler shop include:
- Expert installation ensuring perfect fitment
- Ability to fabricate custom piping if needed
- Proper use of clamps, gaskets, and hangers
- Tuning of exhaust system sound and performance
- Warranty support from the installation business
However, professional installation can easily run $500 or more in labor fees. For those with automotive skills, buying a direct-fit kit and handling the work yourself will save major cash. The choice ultimately comes down to your ability level and budget.
What Materials are Used in Hushpower Construction?
Flowmaster constructs its Hushpower mufflers using a combination of roto-molded thermoplastic components along with internal plates and tubes made from heavy gauge stainless steel.
The outer body utilizes a fiber-reinforced thermoplastic material that can handle high temperatures while resisting corrosion and abrasion. Stainless internal components prevent rust and stand up to prolonged exhaust system vibration.
Heavy duty spot welds, metal hangers, and clamps ensure each muffler maintains structural integrity even when subjected to off-road driving stresses. From materials to construction, Hushpower mufflers are clearly built to last.
Impact on Fuel Efficiency
A common concern when adding performance exhaust components is the potential impact on fuel mileage. By removing restrictions, performance mufflers can sometimes reduce vacuum pressure and cause a slight reduction in economy.
However, the Hushpower employs advanced flow dynamics to avoid most of that loss. Owners report only a 1-2 MPG drop at most after installing Hushpower mufflers. Considering the power and sound gains, this minimal mileage penalty is well worth it in my opinion.
As long as your engine is properly tuned, the efficiency impact should be nearly unnoticeable. The free-flowing nature of the Hushpower prevents the exhaust backpressure that really hurts MPG. For my truck, the awesome sound is far more important than sweating a few tenths of a MPG.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
While exhaust system upgrades provide many performance benefits, it’s essential to keep legal and regulatory compliance in mind. Installing mufflers like the Hushpower may impact the emissions control system.
California and several other states have restrictions in this regard. Ensure any muffler upgrades are emissions legal for street use in your area. CARB stickers may be required.
It’s also crucial to abide by local noise ordinances. While the Hushpower is engineered for lower interior resonance, some areas impose strict decibel limits. Familiarize yourself with the regulations and have a shop verify legal sound levels after install.
Finally, remember performance gains may impact any manufacturer powertrain warranty. Tread carefully if your vehicle is still covered. Get written dealer approval of upgrades when possible or revert to stock components before major engine work.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
Consumer reception of the Hushpower muffler has been overwhelmingly positive overall. In hundreds of reviews, owners praise the ability to get an aggressive exhaust note when accelerating without droning cruising noise.
Complaints are rare and mostly focus on clarifying the difference between Hushpower and more wide-open Flowmaster models. It’s designed for milder interior sound by nature. Professional installation is recommended by most to optimize the performance and sound benefits.
After researching extensively and now having firsthand experience with the Hushpower on my F-150, I can vouche for the excellent balance it provides. For enthusiasts seeking that compromise between daily driving comfort and aggressive performance sound when you want it, the Hushpower simply can’t be beaten.
Ongoing Maintenance and Care
Fortunately, the Hushpower mufflers require no special maintenance themselves beyond basic care. I recommend wiping down the outer surface periodically with mild soap and water to prevent buildup of road grime and salts.
Avoid spraying directly at the muffler outlet during washing. Beyond that, just take care not to bash the mufflers when driving over obstacles or rough terrain. Visually inspect clamps and hangers whenever changing your oil.
As with all performance exhaust upgrades, I suggest re-tightening clamps after the first 500 miles to prevent leaks as components settle. Planning to install new gaskets and clamps is also wise for maximum longevity.
With basic prudent care and inspection, a Hushpower muffler system should deliver quiet performance for the long haul. The outer thermoplastic body is nearly impervious to corrosion. Just drive it and enjoy it!
The Bottom Line on Flowmaster Hushpower
For truck and muscle car owners seeking the perfect blend of free-flowing performance and livable sound, Flowmaster’s Hushpower represents the state-of-the-art. The innovative chambered and louvered design reduces interior resonance while unleashing exhilarating sound outside.
Direct bolt-on fitment makes installation straightforward for most popular domestic performance vehicles. Performance gains won’t set any land speed records but do provide noticeable improvements in acceleration and refinement of tone.
Hushpower delivers Flowmaster’s signature sound – matured for daily driving but ready to roar when you drop the hammer. If you don’t mind the premium price, it’s hard to find a better balance of noise reduction and power. For my Mustang, I won’t be going back to anything else!
