The Best Exhaust System for Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi: Our Top Recommendations!

​It has been a little over a decade since the Ram Truck brand separated from Dodge. The sales of the first 2009 Dodge Ram 1500 model started at the end of 2008, and since that time Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi has become one of the most powerful pickup trucks on the market.

Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 models, released in the last ten years, are equipped with either V6 or V8 engines, that are well-known for their high-end performance. The stock exhaust systems that ship with Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 pickup trucks allow you to unleash only a portion of the engine’s power. That is why so many Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 owners choose to replace the stock exhaust system with more efficient systems that improve gas mileage and make the pickup truck faster.

Finding the best exhaust system for your Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi may not be easy since there are so many great options on the market. So, we’ve shortlisted the top five exhaust systems, to help you discover the next exhaust system for your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500.

Up Front Best Exhaust System for Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi

  1. Borla 140307 Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust System: Best Overall

  2. Flowmaster 817633 Outlaw Series Cat-Back Exhaust System: Most Aggressive Sound

  3. JBA (6961S) 1-7/8″ Stainless Steel 4 into 1 Primary Long Tube Exhaust Header: Most Durable

  4. B2 Fabrication Magnaflow: Excellent Option

Our Top Pick
Borla 140307 Exhaust System | Amazon
$1,271.39

The Borla 140307 Exhaust System is economic and saves fuel, it increases velocity and its special technology unleashes hidden horsepower of vehicles, which makes it our top pick!

Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
02/19/2024 05:32 am GMT

Single or Dual Exhaust System configuration, which one is better for a Dodge Ram 15 Hemi?

Dodge Ram 15 Hemi

There are two major factors you have to consider while choosing an exhaust system for your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500. First, you must determine which model of Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 you own, and then you should decide if you want to equip your pickup truck with a single or a dual exhaust system.

The model of Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 you have may not be compatible with all the single, dual and other types of exhaust system configurations. Each configuration is used for different purposes, so which one you are going to choose also depends on the purpose for which you are going to use your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500.

Single exhaust system configurations have just one exhaust pipe through which gases exit the vehicle, while dual systems have two exhaust pipes. Even though dual exhaust systems can push out more fumes from the system than single exhaust system configurations, there are still pros and cons to both systems.

In case you are looking for an exhaust system that increases the fuel economy, ensures that the gas is moving rapidly along the exhaust pipe and that can be easily replaced then you should opt for a single exhaust system configuration. Besides, using a single exhaust system on your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 can improve its horsepower and sound.

However, choosing a dual exhaust system configuration will enable you to increase your vehicle’s horsepower even further, while keeping the engine cool. Dual exhaust systems also enhance the sound your vehicle is producing, and they are generally more stylish than single exhaust systems.

The second exhaust pipe in the dual exhaust configurations helps reduce the temperature of the entire system. As a result, condensation that causes corrosion occurs more frequently on dual exhaust systems. That’s why a single exhaust system configuration is a better option if you value durability over performance.

How many different types of exhaust systems for Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi are there?

Dodge Ram 15 Hemi exhaust retro fit

In order to find out which type of exhaust system you should get, you must know which parts of the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system you want to replace.

Different types of exhaust systems come with different combinations of catalytic converters, tailpipes, crossover, and intermediate pipes and mufflers.

The three most common types of exhaust systems for Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 are:

  • Header-back exhaust systems
  • Cat-back exhaust systems
  • Axle-back exhaust systems

That’s why choosing a header-back exhaust system is a great option if you want to replace Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system entirely. If you would like to replace components from the catalytic converter back, then cat-back exhaust systems are your best option. These exhaust systems commonly feature a muffler and a tailpipe but some models can also contain mid-pipers, as well as X-pipe, H-pipe or Y-pipe.

Axle-back exhaust systems allow you to replace components from the rear axel to the exhaust tip. The header-back and cat-back exhaust systems are more powerful than the axle-back systems, but they are also more expensive. Moreover, the axle-back exhaust systems are easier to install than other types of exhaust systems for Dodge Ram Hemi 1500.

The cat-back exhaust systems are probably the most popular upgrade for Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 because they ensure a free exhaust flow which ultimately boosts the vehicle’s horsepower. Nonetheless, which type of exhaust system you are going to pick depends on how much you want to upgrade the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system.

Check out how the Axle-Back Exhaust system compares to Cat Back in our full comparison here.

Does the material from which an exhaust system is made impact its performance?

exhaust for dodge

Exhaust systems can be made from a variety of ferrous alloy materials, although the stainless steel has been the most commonly used material for exhaust systems since the mid-1990s. Even though exhaust systems made from different types of stainless-steel are largely available, the Ferritic and Austenitic stainless-steel models are probably the most common.

The exhaust system’s corrosion resistance determines the system’s durability since rust can hamper its capabilities significantly. Stainless-steel is often mixed with other elements like chromium, nickel, and carbon that provide strength in high-temperature applications, prevent oxidation and enhance resistance to corrosion cracking.

Other materials like titanium or ceramics are also used to manufacture parts of exhaust systems, although Titanium-made exhaust systems are much more expensive than those made from stainless steel. The material from which an exhaust system is made doesn’t influence the engine’s performance directly, but the system’s durability depends upon it.

The exhaust systems made from Ferritic or Austenitic stainless-steel provide durability at affordable prices. If you want to ensure that the exhaust system you want to install on your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 is ready for high-end performance then you should opt for a titanium-made exhaust-system.

Can an exhaust system enhance the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s power and torque?

Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 back

As we already mentioned, all Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 models either have V6 or V8 engines that have a lot of power and torque. The horsepower and torque of these engines vary from model to model, and how powerful your engine is, depends on the model you have under the hood.

Moreover, not all exhaust systems can be used with V6 and V8 engines, which is why you must find out which engine model you have before you choose your next exhaust system. Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system delivers only limited capabilities, so adding an extra exhaust pipe or improving the flow of the gas throughout the system can result in improved horsepower and torque usage.

So, header-back, cat-back, and axle-back exhaust systems are a significant upgrade from the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system. Choosing any of these exhaust systems is going to make your engine more powerful by enabling it to utilize the horsepower and torque more efficiently. Furthermore, upgrading your vehicle’s stock exhaust system can increase its gas mileage and reduce your fuel costs.

The purpose for which you are going to use your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 is the best indicator of the type of exhaust system you should get, since there is no reason to spend a lot of money on an exhaust system designed for racing, if you just want to use your pickup truck to perform your daily tasks. Click here if you would like to learn more about how carburetors and radiators can improve the engine’s performance.

How much should an exhaust system for Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi cost?

The price difference between cat-back and axle-back exhaust systems is minuscule and it ranges from $300 to $1200. Header-back exhaust systems are more expensive since models compatible with Porsche and Mercedes vehicles can cost more than $2000. Hover, header-back exhaust systems can also be purchased for a few hundred dollars.

Replacing an exhaust tip can cost you anywhere between $25 and $150, in case you don’t want to purchase a cat-back or axle-back exhaust system that replaces the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system entirely. A muffler makes an exhaust system less noisy, and a poorly designed muffler can make a pickup truck’s performance less powerful.

Most high-quality mufflers can be acquired in a $75 to $300 price range, but you should keep in mind that installing mufflers at home by yourself can be difficult. Even though there is no limit to how much you can spend on a new exhaust system for a Dodge Hemi 1500, most exhaust systems can be purchased for a few hundred dollars.

If you opt for a cat-back, header-back or axle-back exhaust system you should make sure that it contains all the parts you need to upgrade your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system.

The Best Exhaust Systems for Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi: Our top five recommendations

The Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s exhaust system consists of several different parts that can be changed separately. So, before you start looking for a new exhaust system you must decide if you want to upgrade your vehicle’s entire exhaust system or just a particular part, like an exhaust tip or a muffler.

I’ve comprised a list that contains the five best exhaust systems for Dodge Ram Hemi 1500, which should help you discover the exhaust system that can boost your pickup truck’s performance the most.

Borla 140307 Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust System

 

borla 140307

Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 owners who want to replace their vehicle’s exhaust system completely and don’t mind spending some extra money in the process, should opt for the Borla’s stainless-steel cat-back exhaust system. The product ships with the exhaust tips, a muffler and both 3 and 2.5-inch pipes that enable you to improve the vehicle’s velocity, torque, and horsepower.

Additionally, this stainless-steel cat-back exhaust system will make your engine more fuel-efficient and it will help keep it in pristine condition longer. The Borla Stainless-steel Cat-Back Exhaust System offers more than its competitors, which makes it a great option for all Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 owners who want to ensure their engines are capable of high-end performances.

The Borla’s exhaust systems are famous for the distinctive sound they make, as they operate with a mellow rumble at low speeds that turns into a growl as the vehicle’s speed increases. This cat-bac exhaust system contains connectors and clamps that make the installation process quick and easy, which enables you to upgrade your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system effortlessly.

If you choose to purchase this exhaust system you will receive the Million Mile warranty, although damages caused by road hazards and weather conditions are not covered. 

Even so, purchasing the Borla stainless-steel cat-back exhaust system is a great long-term investment that will significantly improve the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s power.

Our Top Pick
Borla 140307 Exhaust System | Amazon
$1,271.39

The Borla 140307 Exhaust System is economic and saves fuel, it increases velocity and its special technology unleashes hidden horsepower of vehicles, which makes it our top pick!

Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
02/19/2024 05:32 am GMT

Pros

  • Increases the engine’s torque and horsepower
  • Extends gas mileage
  • Generates a unique sound
  • Compatible with 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive pickup trucks

Cons

  • More expensive than most cat-back exhaust systems
  • Corrosion resistance could be better

Flowmaster 817633 Outlaw Series Cat-Back Exhaust System

flowmaster 817690

This is a great all-around cat-back exhaust system that is famous for the aggressive sound it generates at high speeds. This Flowmaster stainless-steel cat-back exhaust system weighs a little over 70 pounds, which makes it one of the heaviest exhaust systems on our top five list.

Even though the Flowmaster 817633 model is going to improve the engine’s torque and horsepower, this cat-back exhaust system impacts the engine’s performance less than the previous two models we discussed. 

The loud, aggressive roar this exhaust system produces has become its trademark and the reason why many of the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 owners opt for it.

Replacing the stock exhaust system with this cat-back system isn’t necessarily simple, since you may have to modify pipes and other parts of the system to fit your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500. Even so, this exhaust system matches the 4.7L and 5.7L V8 Hemi engines which makes it perfectly suited for all Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 models produced between 2009 and 2014.

The system features the Super 10 Series muffler as well as 3-inch tailpipes, and its exhaust tips are coated with black ceramic. Despite the hefty price tag, Flowmaster 817633 is still one of the best cat-back exhaust systems for Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 on the market that ensures overall better performance of the vehicle.

Flowmaster 817633 Outlaw Muffler | Amazon
$400.64

This is perfect for the person looking for a very deep and aggressive sound level inside and outside the vehicle. This bolt-on stainless steel system gives you all the performance benefits and sound. 

Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
03/09/2024 03:31 pm GMT

Pros

  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Can be used with 4.7L and 5.7L V8 Hemi engines
  • Generates a loud roar at high speeds
  • Extends the vehicle’s gas mileage

Cons

  • More expensive than similar cat-back exhaust systems
  • The installation process can be difficult

JBA (6961S) 1-7/8″ Stainless Steel 4 into 1 Primary Long Tube Exhaust Header

jba 6961s

In case you are interested in an exhaust system that is favored by racecar drivers, then the JBA 6961S model is the right choice for you. The system maximizes the engine’s horsepower and torque, turning your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 into a true beast that can deliver high-performance regardless of the terrain or the weather conditions.

The oversized exhaust ports ensure that the fumes are removed from the system, while the 1-7/8″ primary tubes allow the gases to move through the exhaust system quickly.

Those Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 owners who are looking for a way to increase the engine’s torque at different velocities are going to enjoy using the JBA’s 6961S exhaust system. Keep in mind that additional mid-pipes must be purchased separately from the exhaust system.

Installing the JBA 6961S on your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 is a job for seasoned professionals since certain parts of the system must be modified and welded.

The JBA 6961S exhaust system is for racing purposes only and you can’t use it in California or any other states that adopted the California Emissions Regulations.

This stainless-steel exhaust system is aimed at racing enthusiasts who want to push their Dodge Ram Hemi 1500s to their limits. 

Sadly, you can’t use this exhaust system on highways or within the city limits in states that have strict emissions regulations.

Pros

  • Made from durable materials that resist corrosion for long periods of time
  • Maximizes the engine’s horsepower and torque
  • Fits perfectly to all 2006-2017 Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 models
  • Weighs less than 40 pounds

Cons

  • Aimed only at professional racecar drivers
  • This exhaust system is not in compliance with California Emissions Regulations

B2 Fabrication Magnaflow

b2 magnaflow muffler

The B2 Fabrication Magnaflow is a muffler that can be added easily to your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system. The 18-inch Magnaflow muffler is made of 304 stainless steel that resists corrosion even after years of heavy use.

The sound the B2 Fabrication Magnaflow generates can be best described as a growl that makes driving your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 more enjoyable.

One of the greatest advantages this muffler offers is the quick installation process since you just have to clamp it to replace your previous muffler.

The B2 Fabrication Magnaflow fits the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system perfectly, so there’s no need to cut or reshape the exhaust pipes. Moreover, the manufacturers guarantee that the tailpipes are going to remain straight after you install B2 Fabrication Magnaflow on your vehicle.

The 304 stainless-steel from which the product is made vouches for its durability since it is not prone to corrosion. The B2 Fabrication Magnaflow can be added to all Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 models produced between 2009 and 2018 that are equipped with Hemi 5.7L engines.

Furthermore, this 18-inch muffler is compatible with both 2-wheel and 4-wheel models and it can fit on all types of wheelbases including those featured on the Big Horn and Rebel Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 models. B2 Fabrication Magnaflow is an excellent option for all Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 owners who want to improve the performance of their vehicle’s exhaust system without having to replace it entirely.

B2 Fabrication Exhaust System | Amazon
$325.00

This exhaust is a simple modification that will leave a lasting impression. Installation requires one simple cut and each unit has been fitted so that your tailpipes will be absolutely straight on installed - guaranteed.

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We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
02/19/2024 01:33 pm GMT

Pros

  • Quick installation process
  • Excellent corrosion resistance
  • No modifications of the exhaust system required
  • Enhances the engine’s sound

Cons

  • Additional purchases are required if you want to upgrade the vehicle’s entire exhaust system
  • Doesn’t include tailpipes

The Verdict: Which Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 exhaust system should you choose?

dodge ram 1500

With so many different options on the market, Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 owners can have a tough time finding the exhaust system that fits their vehicle. In addition, you must decide if you are looking for a single or a dual exhaust system configuration and whether you want to get a header-back exhaust system, a cat-back exhaust system or an axle-back exhaust system.

Your budget also plays an important role in your decision which exhaust system you are going to use to update the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system since cat-back and axle-back exhaust systems can cost anywhere between $300 and $1200. In case you just want to upgrade parts of the stock exhaust system you have on your Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi, you can buy mufflers or exhaust tips separately.

If you would like to change the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s completely, I recommend choosing a cat-back exhaust system like Borla 140307 or Flowmaster 817633. Both of these cat-back exhaust systems come with a hefty price tag, but investing in either of them can prove beneficial for your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 in the long run.

Mufflers can also improve your engine’s performance by ensuring that the exhaust system gets rid of the fumes quickly. They also make the exhaust system quieter and keep your vehicle in line with noise regulations. So, if you just want to modulate the sound your engine creates, you should get B2 Fabrication Magnaflow muffler that provides high-quality service over a long period of time.

Our Top Pick
Borla 140307 Exhaust System | Amazon
$1,271.39

The Borla 140307 Exhaust System is economic and saves fuel, it increases velocity and its special technology unleashes hidden horsepower of vehicles, which makes it our top pick!

Buy at Amazon.com
We earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
02/19/2024 05:32 am GMT

FAQ’s

Can I install a dual exhaust system on my Dodge Ram Hemi 1500?

Yes, nearly all Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 models support dual exhaust systems, but you must check if the exhaust system you are thinking of buying is compatible with the engine your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 has.

How can a cat-back exhaust system improve the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s performance?

Cat-back exhaust systems increase the horsepower and torque your engine uses, while also ensuring a fast flow of fumes through the system. In addition, cat-back exhaust systems make a Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 sound better.

Should I opt for an aluminum-made exhaust system?

Even though aluminum-made exhaust systems are generally lighter than those made from stainless steel, they are also more prone to corrosion. That’s why you should only choose an aluminum-made exhaust system if durability is not important to you.

Which type of exhaust system is the best for a Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi?

Each of the available exhaust systems has its advantages and disadvantages, so before you opt for a particular type of exhaust system you should check how well it fits the Dodge Ram Hemi 1500 model you own.

Is it difficult to install a new exhaust system?

The answer to this question depends on the exhaust system you want to install since some of them can be installed using only the basic garage tools, while others must be welded.

Do all exhaust systems come with a lifetime guarantee?

Whether or not an exhaust system has a lifetime guarantee depends on the manufacturer and the model in question.

Do all exhaust systems fit on 4-wheel drive Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi models?

Some exhaust systems fit only 2-wheel drive systems, and you must check if the exhaust system you’re interested in can be used with your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500.

Do exhaust systems prolong the engine’s life?

Yes, they do because they ensure that all fumes are removed from the system quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that all Dodge Ram 1500 Hemi models are among the best pickup trucks on the market. However, installing a new exhaust system on your vehicle can help you extend its fuel efficiency, torque, and horsepower. Are you thinking about replacing your Dodge Ram Hemi 1500’s stock exhaust system? Which exhaust system are you going to replace it with? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

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