[JeffNJ]

Actually, I left this out of chat originally because chat is not only really busy as is, but seemed more aimed at 'not always about cars', whereas this was. But, anyway, whatever. =)

Ok, so I went with custom for a few reasons. The biggest might have been because my mechanic suggested it, but then, that was only because it was a lot cheaper. Obviously, that has a lot to do with it. Another reason to go custom was the fact I could describe how I wanted it to sound.

Like, why pay $600 for a GReddy system that everyone tells you produces a nice quiet rumble when you can just pay for $400 instead for a system you requested from the begining should be made to produce a nice quiet rumble? Ya know?

Oh, to answer, yes it is rust-proof aluminized steel. The guy said he painted it black to give it a "stealth look". What's that all about? It's on the bottom of my car. Why would anyone care what color it was? Leave it bare aluminum, chrome it, paint it pink for all I care - I'm never going to see it.

Whatever, it sounds great, and feels a little nicer too. I notice that my car's new favorite gear seems to be third - it used to be second. I don't know exactly what that means, but it's the best I can describe it.