Exhaust Cutouts - Electric & Manual for Mustang, Camaro, Silverado

How Exhaust Cutouts Work

An exhaust cutout adds a valve and bypass section to the exhaust path. With the valve closed, gases flow through the normal muffled exhaust. With the valve open, gases take a shorter route for a more aggressive sound.

Electric and Manual Controls

Electric systems use a motor, switch, remote, or controller to move the valve. Manual cutouts use a removable plate or mechanical closure and are a simple option for dedicated track or off-road vehicles.

Single and Dual Exhaust Systems

Single kits suit one exhaust path. Dual kits are intended for vehicles with separate left and right exhaust routing or custom dual systems. Measure each pipe and choose the correct kit configuration.

Tube Size and Installation Style

Common sizes include 2.5 inch, 3 inch, 3.5 inch, and 4 inch. Weld-in assemblies offer a permanent custom fit, while slip-fit versions use clamps where the tubing dimensions and access allow.

Valve Placement and Clearance

Install the valve where it clears the floorpan, transmission, driveshaft, suspension, fuel lines, and heat-sensitive components. Maintain safe routing for exhaust gases and follow the kit manufacturer installation guidance.

Wiring and Controls

Electric cutouts need protected wiring, a fused power source, and a secure switch or remote receiver. Route wires away from heat and moving parts, then test valve operation before driving.

Sound, Performance, and Legal Use

Opening a cutout can produce a substantial sound increase and can change exhaust restriction. Performance results depend on the whole engine and exhaust combination. Sound and emissions rules vary by jurisdiction, so use the system responsibly and check local requirements.

System Planning

Match cutouts with compatible headers, mid pipes, cat-back systems, and clamps. A professional exhaust shop can fabricate placement, weld joints, and check for leaks on custom builds.

Top Exhaust Cutouts Brands

• QTP, electric cutout systems and butterfly valves
• Granatelli Motor Sports, manual and electronic cutout kits
• Doug’s Headers, exhaust fabrication components
• Hooker, performance exhaust and collector components
• Flowmaster, mufflers and performance exhaust systems
• MagnaFlow, stainless exhaust and muffler components
• Borla, performance exhaust systems
• Vibrant Performance, fabrication and exhaust hardware
• Dynatech, headers and exhaust components
• Stainless Works, custom exhaust and performance systems

How to Choose the Correct Exhaust Cutouts

• Measure the outside diameter of the exhaust tubing
• Choose a single or dual kit based on the exhaust routing
• Select electric control for in-cabin operation or manual for simplicity
• Confirm sufficient ground, suspension, and drivetrain clearance
• Choose weld-in or slip-fit installation based on the exhaust design
• Plan wiring, fusing, switch placement, and weather protection
• Use quality clamps or professional welds to prevent leaks
• Check local sound and emissions requirements before use
• Review the kit for replacement motors, gaskets, and hardware
• Have a custom exhaust shop install the system when fabrication is needed

Common Questions

How do electric exhaust cutouts work?

A motorized valve opens a bypass in the exhaust. When closed, exhaust follows the normal muffled path. When open, it exits through the cutout path.

Do exhaust cutouts add horsepower?

Results depend on the engine and full exhaust design. An open cutout can reduce restriction, but gains are not guaranteed on every setup.

What cutout size do I need?

Match the kit to the exhaust tubing outside diameter. Common sizes are 2.5 inch, 3 inch, 3.5 inch, and 4 inch.

Can I install an exhaust cutout myself?

Some slip-fit kits suit experienced DIY installers. Weld-in kits and custom routing are best handled by a professional exhaust shop.

Are electric cutouts weatherproof?

Many are designed for vehicle use, but wiring, connectors, and valve placement still need protection from heat, water, and road debris.

Do I need one or two cutouts?

Use one for a single exhaust path and consider a matched dual kit for separate dual-exhaust routing.

Where should an exhaust cutout be installed?

Placement must clear chassis components, suspension travel, wiring, fuel lines, and heat-sensitive parts. Follow the kit instructions.

Can I run an exhaust cutout on the street?

Sound and emissions laws vary. Check local regulations and operate the system responsibly.

Will a cutout work with a cat-back exhaust?

Often yes, if the pipe size, routing, and available space are compatible. Verify the planned installation location.

How do I prevent exhaust leaks?

Use correct-size tubing, quality clamps or welds, proper gaskets, and inspect the system after heat cycles.

Why Buy Exhaust Cutouts from Black Ops Auto Works

Black Ops Auto Works stocks 98 Exhaust Cutouts SKUs with fitment data, competitive pricing, and support from staff who build these vehicles themselves. Products are filterable by year, make, model, trim, engine, and drivetrain to help confirm the correct application before ordering.

For focused shopping, browse our exhaust cutouts and hardware, cat-back exhaust systems, exhaust systems, headers and manifolds, QTP, and Granatelli Motor Sports.