Effective Ways to Reduce Engine Noise and Get a Smoother, Quieter Ride
A number of owners of the Victory 450 UTV, TrailMaster 400 UTV, and Cazador Outfitter 400 UTV have commented that the factory 400–450cc class engines can run louder than desired—especially under throttle. This is normal for single-cylinder off-road engines, but the good news is that there are easy, inexpensive, and highly effective ways to bring those decibels down and make the ride noticeably quieter.
Below are the top methods we recommend at BDX Performance for reducing exhaust noise on these vehicles. Customers who have applied all three methods have reported dramatic reductions in engine volume.
1. Wrap the Exhaust With Muffler/Exhaust Tape
One of the simplest upgrades you can do is wrapping the exhaust with high-temperature muffler tape.
Why it works:
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It reduces vibration noise
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It traps and dissipates heat more efficiently
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It dampens the “tinny” sound common on thin-wall UTV exhausts
How to apply:
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Clean the exhaust pipe
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Start at the exhaust port and wrap tightly toward the muffler
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Overlap each layer by about ¼–½ inch
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Secure the ends with heat-rated clamps
- Allow the vehile to run for a while in a well ventilated area so that the compounds in the tape cure.
This alone can produce an immediate and very noticeable reduction in exhaust noise.
2. Insert Stainless Steel Scrub Pads Inside the Muffler
This is an old-school but highly effective technique for breaking up exhaust pulses and absorbing sound waves. These are the metal scrubs that are used in your kitchen to scrub your dishes. Do not use steel wool. We have not tested this and are not sure how they would affect things.
Why it works:
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The stainless material diffuses sound energy
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It creates a mild baffle effect
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It lowers high-frequency “snap” and “crackle” tones
Important notes:
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Only use stainless scrubs (not steel wool, not copper)
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Do not pack them too tightly—airflow must remain strong
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You may need to replace in a couple of years if you feel your vehicle lacking power. There may be carbon build up on the scrubs blocking exhaust flow.
Customers are often surprised by how much quieter the exhaust becomes with this simple addition.
3. Install the BDX Exhaust Dampener (Highest Reduction)
For maximum noise reduction, we recommend installing the BDX Exhaust Dampener, which mounts after the muffler.
What it does:
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Acts as a secondary silencer
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Lowers overall exhaust volume
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Smooths out the exhaust tone
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Reduces “popping” on deceleration
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Provides a deeper, quieter, more controlled sound
This is the single most effective mod for customers who want the quietest ride possible, especially in neighborhoods, hunting environments, or work zones.
Final Thoughts: Make Your UTV Quieter, Smoother, and More Enjoyable
The Victory 450, TrailMaster 400, and Cazador Outfitter 400 all use high-compression, single-cylinder engines that naturally produce more exhaust noise than larger multi-cylinder UTVs. However, with the three simple upgrades above, you can significantly reduce sound output and transform the riding experience.
Most customers use all three methods together for the best results—and the difference is night and day.
If you need help selecting parts or want guidance installing the BDX Exhaust Dampener, feel free to call us anytime. At BDX Performance, we specialize in helping customers get the most from their off-road vehicles—quietly, smoothly, and reliably.
