Ford Ranger PX Series Exhaust Mods: What You Need to Know About Upgrading Your System

Date Posted: 20 December 2024

The Ford Ranger PX is already a powerhouse on wheels, built to tackle tough terrains and cruise comfortably on the highway. But, like any vehicle, it has untapped potential that’s waiting to be unlocked. That’s where exhaust mods come into play. So, what can a Ford Ranger PX exhaust mod do for performance? And what are the best mods? Let’s find out.

What Upgrading Your Exhaust System Can Do

Upgrading the exhaust system on your Ford Ranger PX can make a noticeable difference in how your truck performs and feels on the road. The factory-installed exhaust pipes on this model are typically on the smaller side, which can restrict the airflow coming out of the engine. When your engine can’t breathe properly, everything feels a bit more sluggish than it has to.

Swapping out the stock system for a better aftermarket setup opens up the airflow, which can help your engine run more efficiently. You’ll likely feel a boost in power, especially during acceleration, and your Ranger will respond quicker when you put your foot down. Plus, a better-flowing exhaust can improve fuel economy - good news for your wallet.

And let’s not forget about the sound. A new exhaust system can turn the Ranger’s relatively tame factory tone into something that sounds more like a proper turbo-diesel truck. Whether you want a deep growl or a throatier roar, an upgrade can give your PX the personality it deserves. So, while a full system upgrade is primarily about improving performance, it can also give your Ranger the voice it’s been missing.

That being said, there are many variations of Ford Ranger PX mods you can do.

Variations of Turbo-Back Systems

A turbo-back exhaust for the Ford Ranger PX.

If we’re talking about performance, a turbo-back upgrade will have the highest impact on your Ford Ranger PX, although it also tends to be the costliest. A turbo-back exhaust system replaces everything from the turbocharger to the tailpipe. This upgrade improves exhaust flow, reduces backpressure, and lets your engine perform at its full potential, delivering noticeable gains in power and torque.

However, there are several turbo-back upgrades you can choose from. The turbo-back system with a cat and hotdog muffler is a good option if you want balanced performance and sound. With its catalytic converter and hotdog-style muffler, this system improves exhaust flow while keeping noise levels controlled. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a more aggressive tone without it becoming overwhelming.

If you’re looking for something a bit louder and freer flowing, a turbo-back exhaust with a cat and pipe only eliminates the muffler entirely. This design focuses on maximum airflow and delivers a more pronounced turbo-diesel growl, making it perfect for drivers who prioritise performance and don’t mind a louder exhaust note. For those seeking simplicity and reduced restriction, a turbo-back system with no cat and a muffler offers a straight-pipe setup with only a muffler in place.

This setup removes the catalytic converter entirely, boosting exhaust flow significantly while keeping some sound control. Finally, a turbo-back exhaust for the Ranger PX with no cat and pipe only is the ultimate in unrestricted flow. With no cat or muffler, this system is all about maximising power and sound, ideal for off-road or competition use where regulations aren’t an issue. Each option offers its own mix of performance, sound, and compliance, so you can pick what suits your goals and driving style best.

A More Affordable Option: A DPF-Back Upgrade

An affordable Ford Ranger PX series exhaust mod - a DPF-back exhaust.

In case you don’t want to change your entire system, a DPF-back upgrade can be a valid exhaust mod for the Ford Ranger PX. A DPF-back exhaust replaces everything from the diesel particulate filter (DPF) to the tailpipe, leaving the factory DPF in place. While it doesn’t provide the same level of airflow improvement as a turbo-back system, it’s a more budget-friendly option and doesn’t interfere with emissions compliance.

By upgrading to a DPF-back system, you can still enjoy better exhaust flow compared to the restrictive OEM pipes, which can result in smoother engine performance and slightly improved fuel efficiency. It’s also a great way to give your Ranger a more refined exhaust note without diving into a full-system overhaul. For instance, a 3" stainless steel DPF-back exhaust with a straight pipe design eliminates unnecessary bends, allowing for freer flow and a deeper tone.

This setup can offer a moderate performance boost and a noticeable sound improvement, especially under load. While a DPF-back upgrade doesn’t deliver the same power gains as a turbo-back system, it’s ideal if you want to keep your emissions system intact, spend less, and still achieve a noticeable improvement in both performance and sound. Essentially, it’s a practical middle ground for many Ranger PX owners.

Minor Ford Ranger PX Mods that Can Affect Performance

An aftermarket DPF for the Ford Ranger PX.

In addition to overhauling your entire system, there are other Ford Ranger PX exhaust mods worth considering if you want to start small. These modifications allow you to target specific areas of your exhaust system to achieve performance gains, sound enhancements, or improved efficiency without committing to a full exhaust upgrade. One option is installing an aftermarket diesel particulate filter for the Ford Ranger PX.

Upgrading to an aftermarket DPF can be an effective way to improve your Ranger’s performance while staying emissions-compliant. Aftermarket DPFs are often designed with better materials and engineering than factory-installed units, providing durability and better efficiency. A new DPF ensures smoother exhaust flow, which can help maintain engine performance and reduce backpressure, especially if it’s caused by a clogged or failing filter.

On the other hand, a DPF delete is a popular option. A DPF delete for the Ford Ranger PX involves removing the DPF and replacing it with a straight pipe, allowing for unrestricted exhaust flow. The result is improved power, reduced backpressure, and a more aggressive exhaust note. Keep in mind that a DPF delete typically requires engine tuning and is intended for off-road use, as it eliminates the vehicle’s emissions compliance.

For a more sound-focused mod that doesn’t significantly alter the system, a muffler delete is a simple yet impactful mod. Removing the muffler and replacing it with a delete pipe results in a louder, more resonant exhaust note. Plus, it also reduces backpressure slightly, which can provide minor performance gains. This mod is an affordable way to make your truck sound more aggressive while retaining the factory emissions setup.

Order Aftermarket Exhaust Parts for Your Ford Ranger PX

Once you decide what Ford Ranger PX exhaust mod you want to try out, all that’s left is to find high-quality aftermarket parts that fit your model. That’s where we can help - at Perform-Ex Auto, we have a wide range of Ford Ranger PX exhaust parts that you can get online.

All of our parts are made to the highest standards and come with a full manufacturer’s warranty. More than that, our mission is to make aftermarket parts accessible to all Australians, which is why our prices are as low as they can go. Once you make your decision, simply place your order online, and we’ll deliver the parts right to your address.

Finally, don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help deciding on the best exhaust mod for your Ford Ranger PX or have any other questions - our team is here to help.