Getting that Deep, Powerful Tone from my New Muffler
I’ve been driving my trusty 2006 Chevy Silverado 2500HD diesel truck for years now, and while I love the power and reliability it has provided, I felt it was time to upgrade the sound and really let that big 6.6L Duramax turbo diesel announce itself! The stock muffler just wasn’t cutting it anymore, so I decided to install a Flowmaster 50 Series HD to really give my truck the bold, aggressive sound I was after.
The Flowmaster 50 Series HD is advertised as their most powerful and deepest-sounding muffler, designed specifically for 3/4 ton and larger trucks and SUVs. I had heard great things about Flowmaster’s reputation for producing quality exhaust components that really transform the sound of your vehicle, so I was eager to experience the rumble for myself.
Specifications
The 50 Series HD has a straight-through interior design with two large 16 gauge mandrel bent aluminized steel tubes inside. This allows for maximum airflow and minimal backpressure. The case itself is constructed from heavy duty 16 gauge aluminized steel to provide durability.
Here are the key specifications:
- Inlet/outlet size: 3 inch
- Body length: 24 inches
- Sound level: Aggressive / Loud
- Material: Aluminised steel casing and internals
- Suitable for diesel trucks up to 1 ton
Performance Improvements
While the main goal was to get that powerful exhaust tone, I was happy to find out that the Flowmaster 50 Series HD also provides some nice performance benefits. The straighter, less restrictive interior allows the engine to breathe better and reduces backpressure.
This can result in improvements such as:
- Increased torque and horsepower output
- Better throttle response
- Enhanced turbo spool up time
- Improved fuel economy
So not only does it sound great, but it can actually help your truck run better too. The efficient interior makes sure exhaust gases aren’t held up on their way out the tailpipe.
The Flowmaster Sound
So how does it actually sound? In one word – INCREDIBLE! The Flowmaster 50 Series HD really gave my truck the deep, throaty, aggressive tone I was looking for.
As soon as I started up the engine, I could hear the bold rumble and authoritative cadence. There are no raspy metallic tones or annoying resonances. Just a clean, muscle car like exhaust note that demands attention.
At idle, it has a loping idle punctuated by a nice burble. Get on the throttle and it opens up with a bellowing roar under acceleration. It’s loud and proud, but not obnoxious.
The sound has lots of depth and a tuned resonance that provides an enjoyableauditory experience every time you mash the pedal. If you’re looking to get noticed, this muffler will certainly deliver the commanding presence you want.
Diesel Suitability
This muffler is specifically tuned for the unique exhaust note of diesel trucks. The larger case, increased baffling, and unrestricted straight through design is engineered to accentuate the diesel engine’s exhaust pulse while eliminating unpleasant tones.
I was concerned it might sound hollow or tinny on my Duramax, but it provides the same muscular rumble you’d expect from a performance muffler on a V8 or muscle car. The tone is tailored perfectly for diesel’s unique sound characteristics.
If you want your diesel truck to sound like a thunderous turbo hauler, the 50 Series HD delivers in spades. The engines voice comes through loud and proud!
Cost Considerations
The Flowmaster 50 Series HD retails for around $150-$250 USD depending on where you purchase. That’s very competitively priced among aftermarket performance mufflers of this caliber.
Professional installation will add $100-150 for labor costs. Or you can DIY for just the price of the muffler if you’re comfortable working on exhaust systems. Either way, it represents a great value for the sheer transformation this muffler makes.
When you consider the improved exhaust note, potential performance benefits, and Flowmaster quality, it’s money well spent. The soundtrack alone is worth the investment in my opinion!
Comparison to Flowmaster 40 Series
The Flowmaster 50 Series HD is sort of the ‘big brother’ to their famous Super 40 Series muffler. Both are designed for pickup trucks and muscle cars, but the 50 Series HD takes things to the extreme.
Here’s how they compare:
- The Super 40 has a 2.5 inch inlet/outlet while the 50 Series has a 3 inch opening.
- The 50 Series has a deeper, louder, more aggressive tone than the 40.
- The 50 Series interior is optimized for diesels and large displacement V8s.
- The 50 Series has a heavier duty 16 gauge case vs. the 40’s 18 gauge.
- The 40 Series is better for stock or mildly modified engines.
- The 50 Series is made for heavily modified powerplants or diesels.
So if you really want to dominate the streets with sound, the Flowmaster 50 Series HD takes the brute force award. But the Super 40 is great for a mildly aggressive tone on lighter duty applications.
Vehicle Fitment
This muffler is designed to directly replace OE mufflers on 3/4 and 1 ton pickup trucks and SUVs equipped with V8 or diesel engines up to 500 horsepower.
Specific applications include:
- Ford Super Duty Series
- Chevy Silverado / GMC Sierra 2500 & 3500
- Ram 2500 & 3500
- Ford Excursion
- Chevy Suburban / Tahoe
- GMC Yukon / Yukon XL
- Cadillac Escalade ESV
- Dodge Ram 2500 Power Wagon
And it can be installed on any truck or SUV with a 3″ exhaust system. Just be sure to verify dimensions for your specific vehicle before purchasing.
The Flowmaster 50 is recommended for folks who tow or haul frequently and want maximum noise reduction. If you routinely push your truck to the limit, this muffler can handle anything you throw at it.
Installation
I decided to have my Flowmaster 50 Series HD installed at a professional exhaust shop. Removing the old muffler and welding in the new one took them about 2-3 hours.
With the right tools and skills, this is generally a bolt-on procedure. But exhaust work involves some fabrication, so you need MIG welding equipment and knowledge.
Safety is also a concern working under a vehicle and handling hot exhaust. While possible as a DIY, having a pro install ensures it’s done right. Unless you’re truly experienced working on exhaust systems, I’d recommend letting the experts handle it.
Benefits of the Upgrade
Here’s a quick rundown of the benefits I’ve experienced since installing the Flowmaster 50 Series HD:
- Throaty, powerful exhaust tone – This is the main reason most choose the upgrade. The Flowmaster sound is iconic.
- Increased torque – The free flowing design reduces backpressure, helping optimize engine output.
- Improved throttle response – Less restrictive exhaust allows the engine to exhale easier, improving responsiveness.
- Enhanced turbo spool up – The reduced backpressure also allows the turbo to spin faster when on boost.
- High quality construction – The heavy gauge steel and MIG welded case will last for years to come.
- Custom look – Ditching the stock muffler for something unique improves the style and attitude.
For me, the beyond aggressive sound was the biggest benefit. But the potential performance improvements and Flowmaster quality are nice bonuses as well.
Warranty Coverage
Flowmaster provides a limited lifetime warranty on all their products. This protects against defects in materials and workmanship.
The warranty is fully transferrable if you sell the vehicle. So you’re covered whether you keep your truck for many years or end up moving on to something new in the near future.
It’s reassuring to know I’m backed by a true lifetime warranty from an industry leader like Flowmaster. It speaks to the quality and durability built into their exhaust components.
Where to Buy
There are a few options to get your hands on the powerful Flowmaster 50 Series HD:
- Direct from Flowmaster website
- Auto parts stores like AutoZone, O’Reilly’s, NAPA, etc.
- 4WD and off road shops
- Online retailers like Jegs, Summit Racing, Amazon, eBay Motors
I prefer to buy directly from manufacturer when possible to ensure genuine product. Flowmaster parts purchased through authorized retailers are also guaranteed authentic.
Make sure to use Flowmaster’s online catalog to double check fitment for your specific truck before purchasing. This helps ensure a smooth installation.
Customer Impressions
Based on reviews, other truck owners seem as impressed with the Flowmaster 50 Series HD as I am. Here are some of the most common sentiments:
- “This muffler completely transformed how my truck sounds. Deep, throaty rumble.”
- “Easy install and ran my diesel exhaust up to 118db…now that’s LOUD!”
- “Way better throttle response and turbo spool up after installing this muffler.”
- “No more muffled stock exhaust. This gives my truck the aggressive sound I wanted.”
- “Sounds insane under heavy load. Blows the doors off any other muffler I’ve heard.”
- “Diesel guys – don’t hesitate to buy this muffler. Makes the turbo whistle like crazy.”
It’s clear I’m not the only one in love with how the 50 Series HD performs on diesel pickups. It may be loud, but sometimes you need to make a big statement!
Emissions Compliance
The Flowmaster 50 Series HD is 50-state street legal and complies with EPA and CARB standards. This is important for any emissions controlled regions.
As long as all other exhaust components such as headers and pipes meet regulatory requirements, adding the Flowmaster muffler will not void compliance on pollution controlled trucks.
Of course, ANY exhaust modifications on newer diesel trucks may impact emissions equipment function. But this muffler itself is legal and tested to meet stringent standards.
Construction Materials
This muffler features an outer case built from 16 gauge aluminized steel. Aluminized simply refers to steel that has been hot dipped coated in aluminum for corrosion resistance. This protects against rust and prevents peeling or flaking.
The internals include two baffled tubes made from fully aluminized 16 gauge steel. This ensures maximum airflow and durability for the life of the muffler.
Stainless steel components are not required thanks to Flowmaster’s advanced aluminized steel. You get the performance without paying for unnecessary stainless internals.
All materials and the MIG welding construction are engineered to stand up to years of use, heat cycles, vibration, and anything else a hard working truck muffler will encounter.
Lifespan
How long will a Flowmaster 50 Series HD last? The simple answer is practically forever if properly maintained.
The lifetime warranty proves the company stands behind the longevity of their products. Follow Flowmaster’s maintenance guidelines, and a 50 Series HD muffler should outlive the vehicle itself.
Many report getting well over 100,000 miles of performance with no decrease in sound or function. As long as corrosion is kept in check, the durable construction offers exceptionally long service life.
These mufflers are built to handle extensive use in harsh conditions. I have no doubts about this one holding strong under my truck for many years and miles to come.
Fuel Economy
Does a performance muffler help gas mileage? While not specifically designed for efficiency, the Flowmaster 50 Series HD’s reduced backpressure does provide some modest fuel economy benefits.
Every bit less restriction in the exhaust system allows the engine to operate more efficiently. This translates to slightly improved MPG in most cases when compared to a stock muffler.
Most users report an average of 1-2 MPG better highway fuel economy after installing their 50 Series HD muffler. That’s not dramatic, but any incremental gains are welcome when towing or hauling heavy loads.
A free flowing exhaust allows the engine to “breathe” easier, and efficiency improves as a result. So beyond just sounding great, the Flowmaster 50 offers subtle fuel mileage bonuses.
Installation Cost
Typical professional installation costs for the Flowmaster 50 Series HD muffler fall in the $100 to $150 range. This varies based on location, shop rates, and any additional work required.
The process involves removing the factory muffler, fabricating any necessary pipes or transitions, welding in the new muffler, adjusting hangers, and double checking for leaks. Most report around 2 hours total labor on average.
If you plan to DIY, then your only costs will be any required exhaust tubing and clamps along with basic hand tools. But as mentioned, exhaust work takes some skill. Attempting to save on labor could end up costing more if issues arise during home installation.
Overall the installation is very affordable considering the complete transformation this muffler offers your truck. One ride down the street and you’ll realize it was money well spent!
Hearing is Believing
No written description can fully do justice to the commanding sound of a Flowmaster 50 Series HD exhaust. So to really understand the power and aggression this muffler produces, check out some customer demo videos on YouTube.
Hearing it on a lifted crew cab diesel just roaring down the freeway will sell you on the Flowmaster rumble! There are also good comparison videos showing the difference versus stock exhaust.
Once you get that cold start thunder and the bellowing growl of the Flowmaster 50 under load, you’ll be hooked. The sound clips say it all… this muffler means serious business!
Potential Issues
The 50 Series HD is a very robust, quality built muffler that should deliver years of trouble free service. But here are a few things to be aware of:
- Corrosion resistance – Be sure to periodically inspect for rust and treat any surface corrosion to maintain the muffler. Avoid submersion through deep water crossings when possible.
- Cracking or leaks – Damage from road debris is unlikely but check welds periodically for cracking which could cause exhaust leaks.
- Performance drop off – Over time, soot buildup inside the muffler may reduce sound and flow. Use a hot soapy solution to clean out the interior every 1-2 years.
- Drone/Resonance – Improper installation or misapplication on certain vehicles can cause unpleasant interior resonance. Make sure to use gaskets/hangers properly.
Really though, the 50 Series HD is built tough enough to shrug off years of abuse. Just avoid DIY errors, watch for corrosion, and keep it clean inside.
Racing Use
Thanks to the 3-inch straight through design, the Flowmaster 50 Series HD works great on high output racing trucks and dedicated off road rigs.
It provides free flowing performance for modified diesel drag trucks, unlimited off-road racers, and even tractor pull competitors.
The only downside is the heavier 16 gauge steel construction adds a few extra pounds compared to a thin stainless race muffler. But durability is unbeatable.
For street driven competition trucks that require mufflers, the 50 Series HD is ideal. It’s perfect for dualie trucks heading to the track straight from a day’s work towing.
The Bottom Line
For diesel truck owners seeking maximum noise reduction and an absolutely eye watering exhaust tone, the Flowmaster 50 Series HD is second to none.
This straight-through stainless muffler oozes power and authority. The deep, aggressive sound will demand respect from anything that dares get in your way.
So if you’re ready to unleash your inner gearhead, upgrade to the Flowmaster 50 Series HD and never look back. The bold, throaty sound is like a drug – just one demo drive and you’re hooked! Your truck will never be the same again.
