[thahemp]

Originally Posted by Mr_Draco

Tunnel braces aren't useless, they are there for a reason or else they wouldn't be required on any vehicles that have a specific channel for the exhaust. They are there specifically for side impact collisions as tunnel braces help distribute the forces and can be the difference between a minor collision and a major one. The bends for the channel inadvertently creates a crumple zone that in side impact collisions will give way.

As for the OP, a properly installed 3" exhaust will not contact the tunnel brace. If the exhaust is rubbing then there is a droop in the exhaust that should not be there. Loosen the connections and push up on the exhaust to straighten it out. If done correctly there will be plenty of room between the exhaust and the factory tunnel brace.

Ain't gonna happen on my JBA system. Plenty of other people have properly installed exhausts that contact the tunnel brace. How hard would you have to squeeze that tunnel brace to get it to fold up? Not that hard. I'm thinking a little shop press would do the trick. Where is the proof that it does something in side-impact collisions? I have never seen it, but I don't dispute that it is out there. I'll be on your side as soon as I see the data.