Second hand exhaust or new?

[Banjo47]

Ive posted this also on the Caterham forum, but I'd like to know if exhausts deteriorate over time. I have a Roadsports whose exhaust was broken in a race last season and I replaced it for the last race with a second hand one. Would there be any difference in power if I fitted a new one? Obviously in racing every little helps and I'd like to know the definitive answer please. Thanks

[Banjo47]

Thanks, but the replacement exhaust is exactly the same as the damaged one it replaced (although older). So the question is exactly that. Would a new one make more (or less) power than one that had been on the car for 20,000 miles lets say.

[Banjo47]

Thanks Cranked up. That confirms what I suspected. If your son races on a budget as I do, its £150 for a second hand unit versus £650 for a new one! As for the Caterham racing, its just bonkers and very competitive, but fun, identical cars, the first 20 on a grid seperated by a second after qualifying makes for very close racing. I'm not sure about the knee down lark your son does though. I recently sold my MV Agusta Brutale but I wouldnt dare do the bike stuff seriously!

[Banjo47]

Havent had the list of races yet but Im sure well be at Snett. Be good to meet you!

[Banjo47]

Thanks Richard. I think you may have a point. Also we have to run with catalytic converters in our series and that could deteriorate. I have been advised previously if there is a "racing incident" and the cat converter is damaged - they are quite delicate - they should be replaced. This of course is the problem with racing in a car with the exhaust on the outside!