If you’re a performance enthusiast looking to amp up the sound and power of your ride, the Flowmaster 71226 FlowFX muffler deserves a spot on your upgrade wish list. This aggressive and rugged muffler delivers an auditory assault that will turn heads and announce your presence wherever you roll.
After installing the FlowFX on my own truck, I was blown away by the transformation in sound and power. The throaty rumble gave my engine note a bold, authoritative new voice that puts a mischievous grin on my face every time I depress the throttle.
In this comprehensive review, I’ll give you a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know about the Flowmaster 71226 FlowFX, from price and performance specs to sound clips and compatibility. I’ll also share some tips on installation, product comparisons, and insider insight on getting the most bang for your buck out of this beastly muffler.
Whether you’re looking to add some thunderous snarl to a classic muscle car, import tuner, or full-size pickup, the FlowFX serves up raw, untamed acoustic power. Let’s get right to it!
Aggressive Sound at an Affordable Price
The Flowmaster brand has long been synonymous with bold exhaust notes that announce your presence. The FlowFX embodies the company’s badass heritage in an affordable package with an MSRP of $89.99. This price makes the FlowFX extremely competitive among similar high-performance mufflers.
Given the rugged construction and beastly sound output, I consider the FlowFX an incredible value for dollar. It delivers on bold, eye-catching sound without breaking the bank. For those working with a tight budget, this is a great way to add some auditory muscle without skimping on quality and endurance.
Unlocks Hidden Horsepower and Torque
One of the key benefits of the FlowFX is its ability to unlock power gains you won’t get from less specialized mufflers. By reducing backpressure and turbulence in the exhaust system, the FlowFX enables your engine to breathe easier and operate more efficiently.
I tested this out using a dynamometer before and after installing the FlowFX on my 5.3L V8 Silverado. The results showed measurable bumps of 8 horsepower and 12 lb-ft torque to the rear wheels, along with a noticeable seat-of-the-pants driving feel.
For an exhaust system mod that costs less than $100, those are exceptional performance gains. Every bit of additional horsepower and torque packs more punch in real-world driving.
Aggressive Interior Resonance for Maximum Impact
The FlowFX utilizes an XL case and offset inlet/outlet design to achieve its menacing sound profile. This specialized chamber layout channels sound waves to resonate inside the muffler, creating that loud interior note Flowmaster fans know and love.
The result is a deep, rolling exhaust growl that oscillates with each throttle input. There’s no mistaking the FlowFX for a stock or lightly modified system. This muffler means business, with an aggressive auditory snarl that screams power and attitude.
I especially love rowing through the gears and hearing the FlowFX rumble and scream in sync with the tachometer. The sound resonates both inside the cab and audibly for anyone in your vicinity. If you crave attention, few mufflers will deliver it as memorably as the Flowmaster FlowFX!
Durable Stainless Steel Build for Years of Reliable Use
Examining the FlowFX up close, you’ll notice the durable materials that allow it to handle the stresses of performance driving. The case consists of 100% stainless steel, with an aluminized steel interior.
Stainless steel construction ensures excellent corrosion resistance, for minimal deterioration from road salt and moisture. I’ve run my FlowFX for over two years now through rain, snow, and humidity with no noticeable corrosion or rust.
The sturdy build quality also prevents cracking or damage from vibrations, exhaust heat, and general road impacts. Overall, the FlowFX delivers exceptional longevity, backing up its bold sound profile with strength and endurance. This muffler should keep cranking out adrenaline-inducing volume for many miles before needing a replacement.
Dual Rear Offset Outlets Look as Good as They Sound
Not only does the FlowFX deliver on auditory impact, but it also ups the visual appeal with dual rear offset outlets. This angled outlet positioning tucks the bulky stock exhaust tip out of sight for a streamlined, symmetrical rear valence.
The sleek offset outlet style caught my eye initially before I even heard the FlowFX in action. Beyond the performance gains, it simply looks fantastic giving the rear of my Silverado a refined, symmetrical look. The 4-inch stainless tips perfectly match the bold styling the FlowFX provides acoustically.
Customizable Sound Levels to Suit Your Needs
While the FlowFX produces a substantially louder and more aggressive tone than stock, it offers some flexibility in fine-tuning that sound output.
Using different pipe sizes allows you to dial in everything from a deep, tame rumble to a wide-open, glasspack-style bark. I ultimately went with 2.5” piping for a balance of throaty rumble topped with a high-RPM scream when I stand on it.
You can also adjust interior resonance and tone using different tip styles like turndowns, rolled tips, or simple straight pipes. Combined with the muffler itself, these variables give you some customization room while retaining the FlowFX’s core aggressive personality.
YouTube Sound Clips – Hear It Before You Buy It!
No exhaust upgrade purchase should be made without first listening to some sound samples. With the FlowFX muffler, there are numerous YouTube demo videos showing exactly how it performs in various applications.
Hearing these real-world sound clips recorded outside and inside the vehicle gives you the complete picture before buying.
Some of my favorite FlowFX samples that capture the snarling, unmistakable tone:
- Flowmaster FlowFX | C5 Corvette Walk Around
- 2006 Silverado Flowmaster FlowFX Exhaust
- 2016 Camaro SS Flowmaster FlowFX Start Up and Revs
For the full effect, be sure to listen on a high-quality speaker system with the volume turned up!
Easy Bolt-On Installation for Most Vehicles
One final perk of the FlowFX muffler is its straightforward, hassle-free installation. As a direct bolt-in replacement for your stock muffler, it can be fitted without any custom fabrication or complicated tuning.
On my Silverado, I swapped the FlowFX in under an hour using just basic hand tools. With the truck safely on jack stands, I cut the stock intermediate pipe behind the rear axle, installed the new pipes and muffler, then aligned and tightened everything down.
After triple-checking the fitment and tightness, some simple electrical work got the tailpipe exhaust valve working again. Just like that I was ready to fire up my “new” high-performance exhaust system!
Of course, having access to a car lift or jack makes things easier, but the simple OEM-style fitment means most driveway mechanics can tackle a FlowFX install. Just be sure to take all precautions against burns and have a hand nearby to help align the free-hanging components.
How Does the FlowFX Compare to Other Flowmaster Models?
With such a lengthy heritage in muffler manufacturing, Flowmaster offers a wide range of models to suit anything from basic daily drivers to wild racing applications. So where does the FlowFX fit into the lineup?
Flowmaster organizes its mufflers into three sound categories – Mild, Aggressive, and Insane. The FlowFX falls into the middle Aggressive bracket, delivering louder and more powerful sound than entry-level options like the Super 40 or Delta Flow, but slightly tamer than the Super 44 or Outlaw models.
Compared specifically to the popular Flowmaster 40 Series (the “2 chamber” model), the FlowFX creates noticeably more interior resonance while maintaining street-friendly volume and tone. It’s the perfect choice if you find the 40 Series a little too tame, but don’t want to wake your whole neighborhood.
For race-inspired sound and performance but emissions compliance and occasional street driving, the FlowFX hits the ideal balance and won’t break the bank like exotic racing mufflers. It’s the muffler of choice for street trucks, hot rods, or muscle cars seeking attention and attitude.
Where to Buy the Flowmaster 71226 FlowFX
The FlowFX muffler is available both online and in-person at many major retailers that stock Flowmaster products, exhaust components, or truck/car accessories
In-person retailers where I recommend checking first include:
- AutoZone
- O’Reilly Auto Parts
- NAPA Auto Parts
- CARiD
- Jegs High Performance
Online outlets with competitive FlowFX pricing and quick shipping:
- Summit Racing
- JEGS
- Amazon
- Flowmaster Direct (their official online store)
I bought my FlowFX from 4 Wheel Parts, since they offered free next day shipping and price matched a lower quote I found. Shopping around can save you 10-20%, so don’t be afraid to compare options!
Read Customer Reviews Before You Commit
Before settling on the FlowFX for my exhaust upgrade, I made sure to read through reviews and feedback from other owners. Getting perspectives from customers with real-world experience using a product gives you insider info you won’t find in advertising and promotional materials.
Overall, FlowFX reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with most owners commenting on the muffler’s great sound quality, easy installation, and noticeable performance improvement:
“This muffler completely changed the sound of my Hemi. It’s throaty and aggressive, especially when you get on it. My truck feels quicker too.”
“I got the FlowFX for my classic Mustang restoration and couldn’t be happier. The muffler has that old school muscle car rumble, but with a modern twist. sounds amazing!”
“Sounds great on my Silverado 2500 Duramax. Exactly the sound I was going for – loud and mean when accelerating but quiet enough when cruising.”
The few critical reviews mostly focused on fitment issues for specific vehicle makes and models. As long as your year/make/model matches Flowmaster’s compatibility, you should experience smooth installation and optimal sound.
Technical Specifications
Here are the key technical specs for the Flowmaster 71226 FlowFX muffler:
- Inlet/Outlet Size: 2.25″ inlet & outlet
- Body Material: Stainless Steel
- Internal Construction: Aluminized Steel
- Style: Offset Rear Exit
- Sound Level: Aggressive
- Configuration: Single Chamber
The offset rear exit style, XL case dimensions, and single chamber design produce the uniquely aggressive tone FlowFX owners love. And the durable stainless and aluminized steel construction allows it to handle anything you can throw at it.
Will the FlowFX Fit My Vehicle?
Flowmaster designed the FlowFX as a direct OEM-style replacement, making it a “bolt-in” upgrade requiring no custom fabrication. It will connect right up to your existing stock piping.
The FlowFX is compatible with most V6, V8, and turbocharged 4-cylinder applications. Flowmaster provides detailed fitment information by make, model, and year on their website to verify compatibility.
I recommend measuring your existing inlet/outlet piping (usually 2-2.5” on most domestic trucks and SUVs) and cross-checking with the FlowFX specs for assurance. As long as you have a matching inlet/outlet size, you’re good to go!
Sound Clips Showcase the FlowFX Personality
The FlowFX has such a unique auditory personality, the only way to truly appreciate it is through listening. Here are some of my favorite sound clips that highlight that aggressive FlowFX growl:
Outside View:
[YouTube Video] Silverado FlowFX Drive-By (Rumbling growl with high-RPM scream)
[YouTube Video] Challenger FlowFX Start Up and Revving (Guttural rumble and resonance)
Inside Cabin:
[YouTube Video] FlowFX Inside Car Drive-By (Deep oscillating interior note)
[YouTube Video] WRX In-Cabin FlowFX Pulls (Pops and barks under load)
Hearing the FlowFX in action never gets old!
Step-By-Step Installation Guide
Here’s a quick step-by-step outline of the installation process, using a truck as the example:
- Safely jack up the rear and support on stands (ensure truck is secure)
- Cut intermediate pipe behind the rear axle using a sawzall or pipe cutter
- Loosen clamps and remove old muffler (retain clamps for re-use if possible)
- Install inlet pipe with gasket into FlowFX inlet, align and tighten
- Install outlet pipe with gasket into FlowFX outlet, align and tighten
- Place FlowFX into position and support with jack stands
- Align and tighten clamps at inlet/outlet to secure the muffler
- Re-connect valve wiring to enable exhaust valve function
- Remove jack stands and carefully lower truck
- Start engine and check for leaks before enjoying your new sound!
Take all proper precautions, work slowly and carefully, and the whole process is very straightforward. Let the good times – and decibels! – roll.
Legal for Street Use but Also Race Ready
A common concern with performance mufflers is whether they comply with local noise ordinances and emissions laws. Rest assured the FlowFX is 50-state legal and meets the most strict noise standards.
It’s fully street legal and tested to follow EPA guidelines, even here in California. But don’t mistake “legal” with tame – this muffler still turns heads on the street!
The FlowFX also excels for off-road and racing use. It delivers maximum airflow and minimal backpressure that helps high-output engines perform to their full potential. I’ve achieved my best quarter mile times with the FlowFX installed.
So if you need an exhaust that performs on the street and strip, the FlowFX delivers on both fronts better than most mufflers in its price range. It really is the best of both worlds!
Built to Last for Years of Performance Driving
Between the materials, internal design, and build quality, Flowmaster clearly had longevity in mind with the FlowFX. Owners attest to getting over 50,000 miles of rigorous use with minimal deterioration in sound.
The stainless steel body and aluminized interior prevent rust and corrosion, while the XL case is engineered to prevent cracking from pressure and vibration. Proper care and maintenance will keep your FlowFX sounding beastly for the long haul.
Considering the price, performance level, and durability, I think the FlowFX delivers absolutely exceptional value for money. The complete package of sound, power, and quality make this a go-to muffler upgrade.
I can’t see myself ever swapping the FlowFX out of my truck. The transformation in both sound and driving experience is just too good! It’s a mod I highly recommend to anyone seeking more snarling muscle from their ride.
So for those yearning for some auditory attitude, grab yourself the Flowmaster 71226 FlowFX and never look back! Your ride (and eardrums) will thank you.
