Tech Talk: Chevrolet Tahoe Exhaust System

TWO LEGENDS

Enduring Icons

Like the GM small-block V8 at its heart, the Chevrolet Tahoe has certainly earned its immutable status as a legend. Both were originally released around the same time back in the 90s, with reputations and fanbases that continue going strong to this day. The 5.3L engine found in the Premier trim Tahoe traces its roots back to 1995, when then Chief Engineer Ed Koerner and his team developed the Generation III LS small block to replace the storied Chevy small-block V8. Now in Generation V, the latest 5.3L evolution of that same design produces as much as 355hp and 383 lb.-ft of torque. Many auto enthusiasts love GM small-block V8s for their standout performance as crate motors. Such engines can be found in vehicles as surprising as the Porsche 911 and Mazda Miata.

The story of the Chevy Tahoe itself begins in 1994, and it has since been put into service in a variety of roles ranging from soccer practice runabout to police cruiser and even military transport. Its versatility and ability to transport people in style and comfort has made it a favorite of private chauffeurs and security services across many parts of the globe. With off-road capability thanks to its body-on-frame SUV lineage and immense seating capacity, the Tahoe exudes a sense that it can basically go anywhere and do anything.

At MagnaFlow we felt that these two legends deserve an exhaust system tailored to highlight the best qualities of each. Our solution? The MagnaFlow Street Series Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System #19541 for the 2021 Chevy Tahoe (Premier trim only). Not only does this system offer an awesome exhaust sound to suit your small-block V8, but the looks to do justice to your handsome Tahoe as well.

UPGRADING AN ICON

Expertly Engineered

The MagnaFlow Street Series Performance Exhaust System for the 2021 Chevy Tahoe features 3” mandrel-bent tubing, a single straight-through muffler, 3 quarter-wave resonators, and a quad-split rear exit with black chrome finished tips. Each system features a durable all stainless-steel design and is produced using cutting edge CNC precision robotic manufacturing. Extensive dyno testing is used to improve system performance. The kit is covered by a limited lifetime construction warranty and one-year finish warranty. A direct-fit design allows for easy, bolt-on installation.

Testing the New Transmission

One of the most recent improvements made to the Tahoe is the addition of a 10-speed automatic transmission. The extra gears were deemed necessary to improve fuel economy, which they effectively did. However, this new transmission also presented our engineering team with new challenges when it came to developing an exhaust upgrade for the new Tahoe.

The issue? Well, the three overdrive gears present in the new transmission allow the engine to turn at much slower speeds when cruising on the highway. Such slow engine speed is great for improving fuel economy, as the rate at which fuel is burned is reduced. Unfortunately, these same low RPMs can cause unwanted low frequency noises, otherwise known as drone. Our initial testing revealed that our concerns were justified. The extra gears in the new transmission were indeed producing more droning than before. Luckily, at MagnaFlow we are sound dynamic experts. To remedy the issue, we would have to incorporate our No Drone Technology.

No Drone Technology

What is No Drone Technology (NDT)? Put simply, the term refers to the engineering we at MagnaFlow undergo to ensure that our performance exhaust systems eliminate the droning caused by low frequencies typically produced at cruising speeds. 

In the case of this Street Series exhaust kit for the 2021 Tahoe (Premier trim only), the solution our engineers came up with was to utilize 3 NDT resonators to neutralize the heightened drone produced by the combination of the GM small-block V8 with its new transmission. The first resonator is located before the muffler, while the other two precede each set of tailpipes respectively. Each of the resonators is designed to reflect low frequency sound waves. These reflections effectively cancel the offending noise out, reducing its audible presence.

The result? This Street Series system now produces virtually no drone. The character of that LS V8 can now shine through, with a sense of power added to the sound courtesy of MagnaFlow’s deep signature exhaust tone. Thanks to clever tuning, the awesome exhaust sounds produced by our Tahoe Street Series system can be enjoyed while keeping interior noise to a minimum.   

Where Can I Get This Upgrade for My Tahoe?

The MagnaFlow Street Series Performance Exhaust System for the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe (Premier trim only) is a hassle-free way to upgrade your SUV with the tone, durability and capability that MagnaFlow’s products are known for. Not only does this exhaust system enhance the sound and performance of the Tahoe’s iconic small-block LS V8, its black chrome finished tips also upgrade the aesthetics of your ride to befit its legendary place in the automotive world.

MagnaFlow’s Street Series Performance Exhaust System #19541 for the 2021 Chevy Tahoe (Premier trim only) is now available for purchase from MagnaFlow.com.

Have questions about our products? Give us a call at 1-800-990-0905, and we’d be happy to help.

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