Outer Limits 4x4 Board

Hi guys and girls,

Could someone in the know please let me know if there is any advantage in choosing aluminised steel exhaust system over standard steel? Better corrosion resistance, or does it just look better?

How long could I resonably expect a standard steel exhaust system to last compared to aluminised? Cost effectiveness of both types? Vehicle will be subject to semi-regular off-road (ab)use.

Any help appreciated. Thanks.

AFAIK all exhaust pipe steel is aluminised mild steel, unless it's stainless.

(aluminised) steel exhausts usually have a 2 year warranty. If you don't go on the beach, they could easily last 10-15 years. If you do a lot of beach driving, don't expect more than 2-4yrs.

A stainless exhaust is usually about double the price of steel.

Thanks for that IsuzuRover, I wasn't aware the standard exhaust was aluminised.

If that is the case, then how come there is a cheaper steel option than aluminised steel? I'm confused.

Most exhuast shops will only use aluminised steel but you can definitely get standard bright steel tube and bends. A lot of custom manifold and exhuast builders that d work on road cars will either use bright steel or stailess steel as they will be TIG welding. If so then the bright steel will not last very long offroad. It will look great to start with and even coating in oil to create a protective layer won't last long. So use coated or stainless steel for an offroad vehicle.

I used aluminised steel tube on my exhaust, bought some mandrel bends and cut to suit. Where it was cut & welded we sprayed with some galmet type spray paint.
That was a couple of years ago now and it only has a bit of surface rust where the paint has come off.

My 93 Mav has the original exhaust system on it...its a daily driver but for the first 7 years of its life had only travelled 55K. Has done 180K now.


Most long lasting exhaust of all the vehicles I have owned.