I have a 3.4 V-6 and I've been searching info for a cat-back exhaust. We have emissions inspections here in NJ. I came across Corsa, Borla and SLP. I know Borla is premium, but I don't put a lot of miles on my car. I also have the option of having a custom system put on by a local shop or they will install what I purchase. I'm open to suggestions.

 

Pretty much every cat-back is going to be emissions legal, as all of the emissions equipment is pre-catback, so that won't be an issue. Unfortunately, changing out the cat-back does not offer any performance increase either, so base your purchase on how the exhaust sounds to you.
I'd look around on youtube or whatever other video sites for sound clips of your specific engine with various exhaust setups and go with what you think sounds best (and is within your budget).

 

Personally, if your current exhaust isn't in horrid condition, I'm more a fan of piecing together your own setup. At most you'd only need 2 mufflers, 1 resonator, and tips- and even with install welding them in usually runs well under what a catback does. Add to that the fact that you can customize it exactly to your taste in sound- rather than be forced to go with a handful of options, since there are hundreds of different muffler options, and a handful different resonator options.

Also, as said above- emission testing has nothing to do with the catback- if you're just talking straight emission testing- you could technically hack all of the exhaust off and do a dump just after the cat and still pass since its already went through the catalytic converter, and no other emission related changes happen in the exhaust.

 

Thanks for the info. I only have 17k on the car, so there's nothing wrong with the exhaust. I will do the "noise" search

 

just weld on some mufflers and tips

 

I was going to suggest that, but realized it's an LS so the OP may be looking to have a dual exhaust installed.
If not, having a replacement muffler and a tip welded on would definitely be your cheapest option with the most flexibility.

One thing I forgot to mention about watching video clips is that these cars usually sound alright with an aftermarket exhaust at idle, but at cruising speeds or at wide-open throttle they don't sound quite as nice. If you can, find some vids with cars actually driving for the best representation of the sound you're looking for.

 

they no longer test emissions at inspection in nj. they dont really inspect the car at all. they just plug into obd2 port. wish i had known before i paid 70 bucks for a sticker. oh and the slp exhaust on the 3.4 is horrible sounding at anytime other than start up and idle.

 

I put my recommendation in your other thread

 

i reccomend, if you are doing a dual setup or single, piece together your own(for the sake of the price). i plan on a high flow cat, resonator delete, and 2 summit racing glasspacks as mufflers. ive already heard it, and it sounds amazing but it all comes down to personal preferance in the end. im using the stock 2 1/4'' piping that has survived nearly 90K miles in excellent condition. i live in PA, and my mechanic told me that setup would certianly pass emissions inspection. im having it done at a local, family-owned shop that will charge me less than $200 for the entire setup.

 

NJ inspection stations is now emissions inspection only and it's free. They check from tailpipe and see if your gas cap is sealed. Was there a few weeks ago. However I do not know how long they will be doing it before it may eventually be all privatized at approved service facilities for a fee of course.