What is the Difference in types of Stainless Steel Exhaust

There are many different grades of stainless-steel used in various industries. In the world of truck exhaust, the two most common grades of stainless-steel used are 409 and 304. While all of them can produce excellent quality exhaust that resist corrosion and rust, there are some key differences between them all. 

Here is the comparison:

409 Stainless-Steel (Mid-Grade):

• Most Common Stainless-Steel Grade Used for Truck Exhaust
• Is dull and cannot be polished
• A Magnetic Steel
• Mid-Level of Resistance to Corrosion
• Eventual Rust Is Likely

Used in the majority of truck parts produced today, 409-grade Stainless-Steel offers Average corrosion resistance when compared to chrome-plated steel. However, due to there being less chromium, and slightly more carbon in the metal, 409 Stainless-Steel is less resistant to corrosion than 304 Stainless-Steel. Eventually, it will begin to rust on the surface. If quick action is not taken, it will eat through the metal.

304 Stainless-Steel (Premium-Grade):

304 Stainless-Steel (Premium-Grade):

• Best Quality Stainless-Steel Grade Used for Truck Parts
• Can Be Polished to a Perfect Mirror Finish
• Non-magnetic Steel
• High Level of Resistance to Corrosion
• Theoretically Should Never “Rust Through” - Surface Rust Will Develop
• Can Be Polished Back to Original Finish

304 Stainless-Steel is among the highest grade used to produce truck parts. Comprised of 18% chromium, 304-grade stainless-steel should never rust through to the point that it will jeopardize the integrity of the metal; the chromium properties in the metal will only allow corrosion to go so far before stopping the rusting process. However, all stainless-steel grades, including 304, can develop surface rust from factors like climate and poor care. Sometimes surface rust will require you to get your hands dirty and pull out that buffing wheel and polish. This level of quality will initially cost you more than its 430-grade counterpart, but its superior durability will pay for itself in the long run. **