aFe Apollo GT Series Cat-Back Hi-Tuck Exhaust 2.5" 409 SS Jeep Gladiator JT | 49-48088

Overview

The aFe Power Apollo GT Series 2-1/2" 409 Stainless Steel Hi-Tuck Cat-Back Exhaust System (P/N 49-48088) is purpose-built for Jeep Gladiator JT owners who demand an aggressive exhaust tone without sacrificing the ground clearance needed for serious off-road use. Engineered and manufactured at aFe's Corona, California facility using state-of-the-art computer-aided design, this direct bolt-on system delivers a deep, street-tuned exhaust note and a polished look — making it one of the best cat-back exhausts for the 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator JT 3.6L Pentastar.

Key Features & Benefits

• 2-1/2" Mandrel-Bent 409 Stainless Steel Tubing — Cold-mandrel bending preserves tube wall integrity for maximum flow consistency and long-term durability compared to crush-bent factory exhaust pipes.
• Hi-Tuck Design for Maximum Ground Clearance — The signature hi-tuck routing and turn-down tip tucks the exhaust tightly to the undercarriage, providing extra clearance during extreme angle climbs or descents and protecting the system over rocks and trail debris.
• High-Flow 409 Stainless Steel Muffler — The straight-through, oval-bodied high-flow muffler absorbs harsh high-pitch tones while unleashing a deep, aggressive street rumble — rated Moderate sound level for daily-driver comfort with off-road character.
• 2-1/2" 304 SS Clamp-On Hi-Tuck Exhaust Tip — Premium 304 stainless steel clamp-on tip features a laser-etched aFe POWER logo for a distinctive, polished finishing touch.
• 100% MIG-Welded Construction — Every joint is fully MIG-welded for race-proven strength, ensuring leak-free seals that hold up under high heat cycling and heavy off-road stress.
• Computer-Aided Design for Factory-Precise Fitment — CAD-engineered to match OEM hanger locations and stock mounting points exactly — no trimming, cutting, or drilling required.
• OEM-Style Factory Hangers — Bayonet-style hangers are welded to the tubing and align with stock hanger bushings, providing a secure, rattle-free fit that matches OEM mounting locations.
• All Hardware Included — Every clamp, coupler, and hanger needed for installation is included in the box — no additional hardware purchases required.
• Made in the USA — Engineered and manufactured at aFe POWER's Corona, California facility.
• 2-Year Warranty — Backed by aFe Power's two-year limited warranty for peace of mind on the trail and the street.

What's Included

• 1x Apollo GT Series Hi-Tuck Cat-Back Exhaust System (main pipe assembly with muffler)
• 1x 2-1/2" Diameter 304 Stainless Steel Clamp-On Hi-Tuck Exhaust Tip (laser-etched aFe POWER logo)
• Band Clamps (all required clamps included)
• OEM-Style Rubber Hanger Bushings
• All Necessary Mounting Hardware
• Installation Instructions

Specifications

Manufacturer Part Number	49-48088
UPC	802959603581
Brand	aFe Power (Advanced Flow Engineering)
System Type	Cat-Back, Single Exit
Exit Style	Hi-Tuck (Turn-Down Tip)
Main Pipe Diameter	2-1/2 IN (2.50")
Primary Pipe Material	409 Stainless Steel, Mandrel-Bent
Exhaust Tip Material	304 Stainless Steel (Polished/Natural)
Tip Diameter	2-1/2 IN
Tip Style	Clamp-On, Turn-Down, Laser-Etched Logo
Muffler Material	409 Stainless Steel, High-Flow
Muffler Body Shape	Oval
Muffler Quantity	1
Inlet Type	Flared
Weld Type	100% MIG-Welded
Sound Level	Moderate (Deep Street Tone)
Clamps Included	Yes
Hangers Included	Yes
Installation Type	Direct Bolt-On, No Cutting or Modifications
Item Weight	44 lbs
Package Dimensions	12 x 24 x 47 inches
Country of Manufacture	USA (Corona, California)
Warranty	2-Year Limited Warranty
CARB Compliance	CARB Compliant — No EO# Required for Cat-Back Systems

Fitment & Compatibility

This aFe Apollo GT Hi-Tuck cat-back exhaust system is a vehicle-specific, direct-fit application for the 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator JT V6-3.6L Pentastar. Compatible across all major trim levels:

• 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport
• 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator Sport S
• 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator Overland
• 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon
• 2024 Jeep Gladiator Rubicon X
• 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator Mojave
• 2024 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X
• 2020 Jeep Gladiator Launch Edition
• 2020–2022 Jeep Gladiator Altitude
• 2021–2024 Jeep Gladiator Willys
• 2021–2023 Jeep Gladiator Willys Sport
• 2021–2023 Jeep Gladiator High Altitude
• 2021 Jeep Gladiator 80th Anniversary
• 2023 Jeep Gladiator Freedom
• 2021–2023 Jeep Gladiator Texas Trail

Note: This system is NOT compatible with the Jeep Gladiator EcoDiesel (3.0L V6 diesel). For diesel applications, see aFe P/N 49-38095-B. An optional Vulcan Series 304 SS Rear-Exit Conversion Pipe (aFe P/N 49C38090) is available separately to convert this hi-tuck system to a traditional rear-exit configuration.

Installation

The aFe Apollo GT Series Hi-Tuck cat-back exhaust is a direct bolt-on system requiring no cutting, drilling, or modifications to your Jeep Gladiator. The system utilizes factory-style OEM hanger locations and includes all necessary hardware. Installation is rated as beginner-to-intermediate difficulty and can typically be completed in approximately 1 hour with basic hand tools. Professional installation is not required, but is recommended if you are unfamiliar with exhaust systems. Printed installation instructions are included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the aFe 49-48088 CARB compliant? Yes. Cat-back exhaust systems do not alter catalytic converter function and do not require a CARB Executive Order (EO) number. This product is legal for use in all 50 states including California.

Does this exhaust drone at highway speeds? The Apollo GT Series muffler is specifically designed with a high-flow straight-through design that absorbs high-pitch tones, resulting in a deep street tone rated as Moderate in loudness — making it well-suited for daily driving.

Can I convert this to a rear-exit tip? Yes. The optional aFe Vulcan Series 304 SS Rear Exit Conversion Pipe (P/N 49C38090) is specifically designed to replace the turn-down hi-tuck tip on this exhaust system.