HMF Utility Series Slip-On Exhaust
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</td> <td> The unit we chose for our Yamaha Grizzly 700 test vehicle is the HMF Utility Series exhaust, part number YG700SAR. The Utility Series exhaust is a popular aftermarket exhaust among utility ATV owners. We chose this exhaust based upon HMF’s popular name in the ATV industry.
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First Inspection of the HMF Utility SeriesThe HMF Utility Series exhaust features a solid aluminum construction, 2 inch, non-restrictive core, high performance glass wool packing and brushed aluminum finish. There is also a variety of finishes as well as end tips which are available. We were very impressed with the construction of the HMF Utility Series exhaust. The fact that HMF uses pop rivets to secure the end caps of the exhaust will pose a slight nuisance when re-packing the exhaust in the future.
Installation:HMF provided very easy to read installation instructions. Total installation time was around 20 min, with minimal tools required. The most challenging part of this installation was the removal and replacing of the springs that secure the HMF pipe to the header pipe. We used a pair of pliers and a flat head screw driver for this process. The pliers where used for the removal, by pulling very hard on the spring to release it from tab. We slid the flat head screw driver under the hook on the spring and placed the end of the screw driver on the tab. Holding the spring in one hand we pried the hook on the spring over the tab and securely into place after installing the new pipe. We recommend using a fuel controller or re-jetting the carburetor to avoid having your motor run lean.
First Ride ReportAfter 20 minutes of installation time, we made our safety checks and prepared to fire the ignition for its first time. As the Grizzly roared to life the first thing to notice was how much louder the ATV was. Most performance exhausts are going to be louder. In our opinion it sounded great. At idle it produced a nice deep throaty sound. With a quick blip of the throttle it produced a loud crisp bark. We took quick run down the road to make sure the fuel settings were adjusted properly. With all setting in order it was time to hit the trails. We noticed a great deal of improvement over the stock set up.
The grizzly was much quicker on take offs, had a noticeable increase in low end torque. We felt that the biggest improvement over stock was the mid range power band.
The HMF Utility Series has an optional Quiet Core insert that reduces the sound of the exhaust. This does not come with the Utility Series exhaust and will need to be purchased separately.
We installed the Quiet Core insert and noticed a big reduction in noise level. There is also a slight decrease in power when installed. For trail riding we preferred having the Quit Core installed. The open exhaust sounds great but after several hours on the trail it can become taxing on the ears. Installation of the Quiet Core requires the removal of the exhaust tip. The process involves removing three bolts and sliding the insert into the end of the muffler.
The noise level specs from HMF are as follows. Standard Utility Series is 102 to 104db. With the Quirt Core installed it drops to 96 to 98db. For reference the stock exhaust on our Grizzly 700 is 86db
ConclusionThe HMF Utility Series is in our opinion a very economical way to increase power without serious engine modifications. It’s sturdy aluminum construction and brushed finish not only gives the machine more power, but also adds a custom look. The HMF Utility Series with or without the Quiet Core installed will definitely give you power gain and a great sounding ATV. Our HMF Utility Series exhaust now has close to 2000 miles and has yet to give us a problem. ATVTorture is happy to endorse the HMF series of exhausts. It is a great choice when considering performance exhaust upgrades for your ATV.
Pros:
- Most economical way to increase power
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Simple and quick to install
- Variety of colors and exhaust tips allow for total customization
- Having the option of using the quiet core
Cons:
- Pop rivets do not allow for easy service
- Spark arrestor screen rusts quickly and requires consistent service
- Quiet Core insert is and additional price.
For more information on the HMF Utility Series Exhaust or any other HMF Products contact Mike at
Dick's ATV Toll Free at 1-877-764-8313.