Megan Racing Exhaust System: Cost, Installation, and Real-world Power Improvements on the Integra Type R

The Acura Integra Type R (DC2) remains one of the most beloved front-wheel-drive performance cars ever built, thanks to its high-revving B18C5 engine, superb chassis, and legendary VTEC crossover. Yet even this iconic machine can benefit from a well-designed aftermarket exhaust system. The Megan Racing Exhaust System has emerged as a popular choice among Integra Type R owners who want a blend of affordable performance, aggressive sound, and weight savings without sacrificing daily drivability. In this comprehensive guide, we break down the real costs, step-by-step installation insights, documented power gains, and everything else you need to know before buying.

Cost Breakdown: What You Really Pay

Understanding the total investment for a Megan Racing Exhaust System goes beyond the sticker price. The base system for the Integra Type R typically ranges from $500 to $800, depending on the specific configuration (cat-back, axle-back, or turbo-back) and the piping diameter (2.5-inch or 3.0-inch). However, several additional factors can shift the final number:

  • Retailer variation – Prices fluctuate between sellers like Redline360, K Series Parts, and Amazon. Sales or bundle deals can lower the base cost by 10–15%.
  • Shipping and handling – Due to the size and weight of the exhaust, shipping often adds $30–$60. Choose free-shipping promotions when available.
  • Gaskets and hardware – Megan Racing typically includes basic gaskets, but many owners prefer upgrading to OEM Acura or Cometic gaskets for a perfect seal ($20–$40).
  • Hangers and rubber mounts – If the original hangers are worn (common on older Type Rs), replacement polyurethane hangers cost around $30–$50 and prevent rattling.
  • Professional installation labor – A dedicated shop charges $100–$300 for cat-back installation, depending on rusted fasteners or clearance adjustments.
  • Cutting/welding modifications – Some Integra Type R chassis require minor trimming of the rear bumper tab or heat shield for proper fitment, adding $50–$100 if you can't do it yourself.

All told, the realistic budget for a Megan Racing exhaust upgrade on a DC2 Integra Type R ranges from $650 to $1,200. Compared to premium brands (HKS, Spoon, J’s Racing) that can exceed $1,500, Megan Racing offers strong value for the price-conscious enthusiast.

Installation Process: Detailed Guide and Pro Tips

Installing a Megan Racing exhaust on the Integra Type R is considered a beginner-to-intermediate job, but careful preparation prevents headaches. Here is an expanded walkthrough of the process, including tricks from seasoned ITR owners.

Tools and Materials Needed

  • Floor jack and four jack stands (or a lift)
  • Metric socket set (10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 17mm) and extensions
  • Breaker bar and penetrating oil (PB Blaster or WD-40)
  • Rubber mallet (to loosen stubborn hangers)
  • Flat-blade screwdriver and pliers
  • Saw or reciprocating saw (if cutting factory exhaust is required – often needed on older systems)
  • New copper or exhaust gaskets (preferably OEM Honda)
  • Anti-seize compound for bolt threads

Step-by-Step Installation

  1. Prep the vehicle – Park on level ground, let the exhaust cool completely if driven recently. Apply penetrating oil to all nuts and bolts (especially the downpipe-to-cat bolts and hanger pins) 15–20 minutes before starting.
  2. Jack and support – Lift the rear of the car safely with jack stands under the frame rails. You’ll need enough clearance to slide the old exhaust out and the new one in — roughly 18 inches of ground clearance works well.
  3. Remove the old exhaust – Starting from the rear, unbolt the muffler hangers (two rubber isolators) and the mid-pipe flange bolts. On the Integra Type R, the factory system is often one piece but may be cut for removal. If necessary, cut the old exhaust with a reciprocating saw just behind the catalytic converter, making removal easier. Secure the new system will rejoin at the same location.
  4. Inspect and clean – Check the catalytic converter outlet flange for corrosion; clean the mating surfaces with a wire brush. Replace any damaged studs already.
  5. Mock-fit the new system – Before tightening, loosely assemble the Megan Racing sections (header-back or cat-back) and hang them in the rubber isolators. This allows you to adjust clearance around the rear sway bar, control arm, and bumper cover.
  6. Torque everything – Starting from the front (header or cat flange), tighten all bolts to the manufacturer’s torque spec (usually 30–40 ft-lbs for 10mm flange bolts). Use anti-seize on threads. For the Megan Racing system, ensure the gasket sits perfectly centered to avoid exhaust leaks.
  7. Final check – With the car still lifted, have a helper briefly start the engine (with ear protection) to check for leaks at every joint. Listen for rattles against the chassis. Adjust hanger positions if the tip contacts the bumper.
  8. Lower and test drive – Lower the car, check clearance again with the car on its own weight. Take a short test drive, let the system heat cycle, then re-torque the flange bolts after the first drive — this step is frequently overlooked but prevents loosening.

Common Installation Pitfalls

  • Stripped flange studs – The OEM downpipe studs are known to corrode. If they snap, drilling and replacing with stainless studs is necessary (adds 1–2 hours).
  • Bumper interference – The Megan Racing exhaust tip (especially the 4-inch rolled tip) may contact the plastic bumper on the DC2. Trimming the bumper tab or using longer hangers solves this.
  • Exhaust leak at slip joints – Megan Racing uses band clamps on some versions. Ensure the clamp is positioned exactly over the welded bump, and tighten to spec — overtightening warps the pipe.
  • No catalytic converter support – If you delete the cat, you’ll need an O2 spacer (defouler) to avoid a check engine light. Megan Racing doesn’t include one, so budget $15–$25.

If any of these steps sound daunting, professional installation is a wise investment — the extra $150–$300 saves hours of frustration and guarantees a leak-free fit.

Real-world Power Improvements and Dyno Data

The headline figure for the Megan Racing cat-back exhaust on a stock Integra Type R is 5–10 whp (wheel horsepower) and similar torque gains in the mid-range. However, real-world results vary widely based on the condition of the B18C5, supporting modifications, and the exact exhaust configuration. Here’s what actual owners and dyno sheets reveal:

Dyno-Proven Gains (Independent Tests)

  • Stock ECU, intake, stock header – Average gain of 7–9 whp at 7800 rpm, with a peak torque increase of 5 lb-ft around 5500 rpm. The VTEC crossover becomes more audible but doesn’t shift the curve significantly.
  • With aftermarket cold air intake (e.g., AEM or Injen) – Gains climb to 10–12 whp, as the exhaust and intake complement each other to reduce restriction.
  • Full bolt-ons (intake, header, exhaust, plus ECU tune) – On a dyno-documented Integra Type R with Skunk2 header, Megan cat-back, and a Hondata S300 tune, the system contributed about 10–15 whp incremental over the baseline, with total output hitting 195–200 whp (up from stock ~170–175 whp).
  • Torque curve improvement – Unlike some loud, “dumped” mufflers, the Megan Racing system uses a straight-through design with a resonated mid-pipe on some models. This maintains torque in the mid-range rather than trading it for top-end. Owners report a flatter curve with less dip after 5000 rpm.

How the Exhaust Achieves These Gains

  • Mandrel-bent tubing – Unlike OEM crush-bent pipes, the Megan system uses smooth, consistent-diameter bends that reduce exhaust gas turbulence and backpressure. The 2.5-inch diameter is ideal for naturally aspirated B18C builds; 3.0 inch is necessary only for forced induction.
  • Straight-through muffler design – The rear muffler uses a perforated core with minimal baffling. This lowers restriction while giving the distinctive “VTEC roar” at high revs. Sound levels remain acceptable for daily driving (91–95 dB at 4000 rpm).
  • Weight reduction – The stock Integra Type R exhaust weighs about 35–40 lbs, while the Megan Racing cat-back version typically weighs 18–22 lbs. That 15–20 lbs of unsprung mass reduction improves acceleration and responsiveness, especially noticeable on track.
  • Heat dissipation – The polished stainless steel construction dissipates heat more effectively than the cast-iron or steel factory system, reducing underbody temperatures and potentially extending engine life.

Backpressure Myths and Reality

A common misconception is that aftermarket exhausts must “reduce backpressure” significantly to increase power. While that’s partially true for turbocharged cars, naturally aspirated engines like the B18C5 require a certain amount of exhaust velocity to maintain scavenging effect. Megan’s system strikes a good balance: the 2.5-inch piping prevents excessive velocity drop, and the resonator (on street versions) preserves low-end torque. On the dyno, the torque loss below 4000 rpm is less than 2 lb-ft — negligible in real-world driving.

Sound Quality and Daily Drivability

Sound is one of the main reasons Integra Type R owners choose Megan Racing. The exhaust produces a deep, mellow idle with no drone at typical highway speeds (2000–3000 rpm). When VTEC engages, the tone sharpens into a purposeful howl, but it never becomes raspy or tinny — a common issue with cheap straight pipes. Most users report that the drone is minimal inside the cabin, thanks to the optional resonator. The 4-inch polished tip fills the rear bumper cutout nicely and adds a subtle aggressive look.

Materials, Build Quality, and Fitment

Construction

The Megan Racing exhaust for the Integra Type R is typically made from T-304 stainless steel (or T-409 on budget versions). T-304 offers superior corrosion resistance and a polished finish that lasts, while T-409 is more prone to surface rust but cheaper. Check the product listing: the “Megan Racing Cat-Back Exhaust” (part number MR-EXH-N-011 for DC2) is often T-304. The welds are generally consistent, though some users note slight leftover slag on the interior — a quick deburring with sandpaper ensures smooth flow.

Fitment Specifics

Integra Type R fitment is usually excellent, with direct bolt-on to the factory catalytic converter location. However, a few tweaks help: the mid-pipe hanger may need slight bending to align with the OEM rubber isolator; the muffler section may sit 1–2 mm lower than ideal, which is easily adjusted with longer hangers. Vehicles with aftermarket rear sway bars (like the 24mm Acura NSX bar) may require repositioning to avoid contact. Overall, installation takes about 1.5–2 hours for a first-timer, 45 minutes for an experienced mechanic.

Comparison with Competing Exhausts

To put the Megan Racing exhaust in perspective, here’s how it stacks against other popular Integra Type R systems:

  • Stock Acura/Honda OEM – Quiet, heavy, restrictive. Megan provides a 10–15 hp gain, weight reduction, and an invigorating sound.
  • A’PEXi N1 – Similar pricing ($600–$800) but often described as louder and more droning. Megan offers better fitment and a more balanced tone.
  • HKS Hi-Power – Slightly pricier ($800–$1,000), excellent build quality, but a deep tone that some find too bass-heavy. Megan is lighter and slightly cheaper.
  • Spoon Sports N1 – Legendary for sound but costs over $1,300 and can be hard to find. Megan offers 80% of the performance for less than half the price.
  • Skunk2 MegaPower – Aggressively loud; targeted at track use. Megan is more daily-friendly while still offering serious gains.

For the price-conscious enthusiast who wants a genuine performance upgrade without breaking the bank, Megan Racing consistently wins comparisons on forums like Team Integra and Honda-Tech.

Maintenance and Longevity

Once installed, the Megan exhaust requires minimal care. T-304 stainless steel resists rust, but salt belt owners should rinse underbody regularly. Check the flange bolts and clamp ring every 6 months — they can loosen due to thermal cycling. The packing inside the muffler may degrade after 30,000–50,000 miles, causing a slightly louder tone; replacement muffler packing is available, but many owners simply replace the rear section when needed (around $150). The system is designed to outlast the car if maintained.

Where to Buy and Warranty Considerations

The Megan Racing exhaust is sold through multiple channels. Recommended retailers include Redline360 (competitive pricing, fast shipping), K Series Parts (specializes in B-series applications), and directly from Megan Racing’s website. Warranty terms vary: typically 1 year against defects in materials and workmanship. Avoid buying from dubious third-party sellers on auction sites where counterfeit or used items are misrepresented. Always verify part number for the Integra Type R (not the DC2 Integra base model — the Type R has specific hanger spacing).

Conclusion: Is the Megan Racing Exhaust Worth It?

For Integra Type R owners seeking an affordable, proven, and satisfying exhaust upgrade, the Megan Racing system is nearly impossible to beat. The price is reasonable, the installation can be handled by a competent DIYer, and the real-world gains of 5–15 horsepower translate to a noticeably quicker, more exciting car. Combined with an intake and a tune, the Megan exhaust unlocks much of the B18C5’s potential without the high cost of boutique brands. It also drops weight, improves sound without becoming obnoxious, and holds up well to street and occasional track use. If you’re ready to give your Type R the voice it deserves while actually picking up speed, the Megan Racing exhaust belongs at the top of your short list.