Exhaust
About Exhaust
A snowmobile exhaust gets rid of the engine's burned gas, and on a two-stroke the pipe also shapes how the engine makes power. Riders shop for a new muffler after dents or cracks from trail hits, for a lighter silencer, or for a performance pipe or kit for mountain or trail riding.
The first decision is how much to replace. A silencer or slip-on muffler swaps only the rear section, while a single pipe or performance kit changes the part that tunes the engine. Kits in this category are sold by make and engine size, some with an altitude range such as 6000 to 8000 feet, because thinner air changes the mixture.
After a change, jetting or the fuel map may need adjusting, so follow the maker's instructions. You also need the small parts that finish the job: stainless clamps are sold by diameter range, for example 1.44 to 1.58 inches and 2.06 to 2.24 inches, so measure the joint, and springs and mounts must suit the pipe.
Brands in this category include DEI, Helix, Vertex, P3 and ISC. A pipe change often goes with other tuning, so see Air Intake & Fuel Systems, Engines & Components and Clutch & Drive Belts. Pick your sled in the Ride Finder at the top of the page, and check how a listing fits with why a part did not fit.
FAQs on snowmobile exhaust
Does a snowmobile exhaust change mean I need to re-jet or retune?
Often it does. A different pipe changes how much air and exhaust move through the engine, so a carbureted sled may need new jets and a fuel-injected one may need a different map or module. Follow the instructions that come with the pipe or kit, and check what your engine and altitude require.
What is the difference between a silencer and a full pipe?
A silencer or slip-on muffler replaces only the rear part of the system and keeps the rest. A full pipe replaces the section that shapes the engine's power band as well, so it makes a bigger change. A full pipe usually needs more tuning and more installation work.
Why do some kits list an altitude range?
Air gets thinner as altitude increases, so the amount of fuel the engine needs changes. Kits such as the ones listed with 6000 to 8000 feet are set up for that elevation band. If you ride at a different altitude, check the maker's tuning chart.
How do I pick the right exhaust clamp?
Measure the outside diameter of the joint where the clamp goes, then choose a clamp whose listed range covers it. Clamps here are listed by diameter range in inches. A clamp that is too large will not seal, and one that is too small will not fit.
Will an aftermarket muffler make my sled louder?
It can. Many performance mufflers are louder than stock ones, and some riding areas and events set sound limits. Check the listing for the muffler's description and look up the rules where you ride before choosing.
