Author: John Lee – Mechanical Engineer | 10+ Years Experience
Updated on March 1, 2026.
TL;DR: An electric exhaust cutout lets drivers switch between quiet and aggressive exhaust sound instantly. Installed between the header and muffler, it bypasses the muffler when open, producing a louder tone. This page shows real vehicle examples, sound tests, and installation insights from multiple builds.
An electric exhaust cutout allows drivers to control their exhaust sound with the push of a button. When the valve is closed, exhaust gases flow through the muffler for a quieter driving experience. When opened, the exhaust bypasses the muffler and exits through a shorter path, producing a louder and more aggressive exhaust tone.
This page collects real installation examples and sound demonstrations of the SPELAB exhaust cutout kit across different vehicles. You can see how the system behaves on different engines and exhaust layouts, from modern muscle cars to compact sport platforms.
Engineering Note – John Lee:
From a mechanical perspective, an exhaust cutout is essentially a controlled bypass in the exhaust flow path. Opening the valve reduces exhaust restriction and eliminates the acoustic damping effect of the muffler. The result is not just louder sound, but a much more direct representation of engine firing pulses.
Exhaust Cutout Sound Test – Dodge Charger 392
Vehicle: Dodge Charger 392
Engine: 6.4L HEMI V8
Modification: SPELAB Electric Exhaust Cutout
Result: Deep and aggressive exhaust tone when the valve opens.
Engineering Observation:
Large displacement V8 engines like the 6.4L HEMI produce strong low-frequency exhaust pulses. When the cutout valve opens and bypasses the muffler, those pulses are no longer filtered, which is why the tone becomes noticeably deeper and more raw compared to a standard cat-back system.
More Exhaust Cutout Sound Examples
Mustang GT Exhaust Cutout Sound
Vehicle: Ford Mustang GT
Engine: 5.0L V8
Result: Aggressive muscle-car sound when the cutout valve opens.
Engineering Observation:
The 5.0L Coyote engine has a higher revving character compared to traditional pushrod V8s. With the cutout open, the exhaust note becomes sharper and more metallic, which reflects the engine’s higher RPM breathing characteristics.
Camaro SS Exhaust Cutout Sound Test
2022 Honda Civic Exhaust Cutout Installation
Engineering Observation:
On smaller displacement engines, the change in sound is often more dramatic because the muffler plays a larger role in shaping the exhaust tone. Opening the cutout creates a much more direct and aggressive sound profile.
1948 Chevrolet 3800 Exhaust Cutout Example
SPELAB Electric Exhaust Cutout Features
Durability is critical for any exhaust component installed underneath a vehicle. Exhaust systems are exposed to heat cycles, moisture, road debris, and vibration, which is why material selection and valve design matter.
- 304 stainless steel exhaust piping
- Carbon steel plated elbow
- 304 stainless steel valve with aluminum alloy housing
- Powder metallurgy internal motor gear
- Reinforced valve bolts
- Thickened exhaust outlet
Engineering Note:
Electric cutout valves live in one of the harshest environments on a vehicle. Temperatures can easily exceed several hundred degrees Fahrenheit during sustained driving. Using stainless steel for the valve and exhaust piping significantly improves corrosion resistance and long-term durability.
The video below shows how the components of the SPELAB electric exhaust cutout system are assembled.
Customer Installation Example – Nissan 350Z
Vehicle: Nissan 350Z
Installation Method: Welded installation
Engineering Observation:
Sports cars like the 350Z typically have tighter underbody packaging. A compact elbow and valve assembly helps maintain adequate ground clearance while still allowing proper exhaust flow.
How to Install an Electric Exhaust Cutout
An exhaust cutout is typically installed between the header and the muffler. When the valve is closed, exhaust gases flow through the muffler normally. When the valve opens, the exhaust bypasses the muffler through the Y-pipe, producing a louder sound.
Two common installation methods are used:
- Welded installation – provides the most secure and permanent fit.
- Clamp installation – easier for DIY installation without welding.
The electric valve is controlled by a motor and control module. The controller can be mounted inside the vehicle and powered through the cigarette lighter socket.
Note: The integrated cigarette lighter power plug used in the SPELAB exhaust cutout includes a 10A fuse.
Full Installation & Review Video
The following video shows the full process including unboxing, installation, and real-world testing of the SPELAB electric exhaust cutout kit.
Shop SPELAB Electric Exhaust Cutout Kits
If you're looking to upgrade your exhaust sound while keeping the flexibility of quiet driving, the SPELAB electric exhaust cutout kit provides a practical solution for many gasoline vehicles.
View SPELAB Exhaust Cutout Kits
FAQ
Q: What is an electric exhaust cutout?
A: An electric exhaust cutout is a valve installed in the exhaust system that allows exhaust gases to bypass the muffler when opened. It is controlled by a switch or remote, letting the driver instantly change between quiet exhaust flow and a louder, more aggressive open exhaust sound.
Q: How does an exhaust cutout work?
A: The cutout is installed in the exhaust pipe using a Y-pipe section. When the valve is closed, exhaust gases flow through the muffler normally. When the valve opens, the exhaust is redirected through the bypass pipe, reducing muffler restriction and increasing exhaust sound.
Q: Does an exhaust cutout increase horsepower?
A: In some cases it can slightly improve performance by reducing exhaust restriction when the valve is open. However, the primary purpose of an exhaust cutout is sound control rather than significant horsepower gains.
Q: Where should an exhaust cutout be installed?
A: Most installations place the cutout between the header and the muffler. This location allows the system to bypass the muffler completely when opened while still maintaining the factory exhaust path when the valve is closed.
Q: Is an exhaust cutout bad for your engine?
A: No. When installed properly, an exhaust cutout does not harm the engine. It simply changes the path of exhaust flow. The engine management system continues operating normally because the main catalytic components remain in place.
Q: How loud is an exhaust cutout?
A: With the valve open, the exhaust becomes significantly louder because the muffler is bypassed. The exact sound level depends on engine size, exhaust design, and where the cutout is installed in the system.
Q: Is an exhaust cutout legal?
A: Legality varies depending on local noise and emissions regulations. Many areas restrict excessively loud exhaust systems on public roads, so drivers should check their local laws before using an open exhaust configuration on the street.
Q: Can you install an exhaust cutout without welding?
A: Yes. Many exhaust cutout kits support both welded installation and clamp-on installation. Clamp systems are easier for DIY installation, while welded setups typically provide the most secure and permanent fit.
John Lee
Mechanical Engineer | 10+ Years Experience
John has spent the last decade engineering and testing high-performance automotive components. Specializing in drivetrain durability and thermal management across Powerstroke, Cummins, and Duramax applications, he bridges the gap between OEM limitations and aftermarket performance. His philosophy: "Factory parts are just a starting point."
14 comments
What would be the part number for a 2016 charger rt 5.7L ?
Thank you, looks like a great product !
I ordered the cut outs a year and a half ago there was some confusion initially with the order being shipped once that was worked out they arrived were installed and made a very noticeable difference immediately with the horse power.
I installed them on a 2007 LS2 corvette . The resulting sound or the resulting rumble was awesome.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PRODUCT TO ANYONE WANTING MORE PERFORMANCE AND SERIOUS RUMBLE
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