Factory tube exhaust is stainless.

In my 2000, I had a bad upper cat, so I hollowed it out and put it on. It really cut down on the bottom end torque. I believe with the reduced back pressure, the low rpm torque is adversely affected. Didn't notice any positive performance from the increased flow.
I am looking for a stock one like you got, put some longer runners on it and see if it improves the bottom end torque.
Keep us posted on your progress.
Everet <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/patriot.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />