aFe Twisted Steel Y-Pipe 2-1/4in 409 Stainless Steel Jeep Wrangler JL & Gladiator JT V6-3.6L | 48-48026

Overview

The aFe Power Twisted Steel Y-Pipe (Part #48-48026) is a direct-fit, bolt-on exhaust upgrade engineered specifically for 2018–2026 Jeep Wrangler JL and 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator JT owners running the V6-3.6L engine. Replacing the restrictive factory Y-pipe with mandrel-bent 409 stainless steel tubing, this Street Series upgrade delivers dyno-proven performance gains on the trail and on the street. If you're building the best cold air and exhaust setup for your Wrangler JL or Gladiator JT, the aFe 48-48026 Y-pipe is the foundation of a more powerful, more efficient exhaust system.

Key Features & Benefits

• Dyno-Proven +8 HP & +14 lb.-ft. Torque — In-house dyno testing produced gains of up to +8 horsepower and +14 lb.-ft. of torque, giving your Wrangler JL or Gladiator JT a genuine, measurable performance boost across the RPM range.
• Mandrel-Bent 409 Stainless Steel Construction — Dual 2-1/4" into 2-1/2" mandrel-bent 409 stainless steel tubing provides smooth exhaust flow transitions, reduces backpressure, and delivers long-lasting corrosion resistance — even in muddy, wet, and off-road conditions.
• 100% Hand MIG-Welded in the USA — Every weld is performed by hand at aFe Power's Corona, California manufacturing facility, ensuring race-proven strength and durability mile after mile.
• Increased Exhaust Flow Diameter — The stepped diameter from 2-1/4" (inlet) to 2-1/2" (outlet) removes the factory restriction and keeps exhaust gases moving smoothly for improved throttle response and a more aggressive exhaust tone.
• Factory-Style Flange Connections for a Leak-Free Seal — High-quality OE-style flanges and band clamps create a complete 360-degree sealing surface, eliminating exhaust leaks and rattles.
• 100% Bolt-On — No Cutting or Modifications Required — Mounts directly to factory locations after the catalytic converter using the stock hardware and mounting points. No drilling, cutting, or welding necessary.
• Compatible with Stock or aFe Mach Force Xp Exhaust — Works seamlessly with the OEM cat-back exhaust system or pairs perfectly with aFe's Mach Force Xp cat-back for maximum all-out performance gains.
• Fits Both 2-Door and 4-Door JL/JT Models — Engineered to fit all Wrangler JL body configurations (Sport, Sahara, Rubicon) and the Gladiator JT across all trim levels.
• 2-Year Limited Warranty — Backed by aFe Power's 2-year limited warranty for peace of mind on and off the trail.
• No Tuning Required — Plug-and-play installation with no ECU tune or additional modifications needed after install.

What's Included

• (1) aFe Twisted Steel Y-Pipe Assembly — dual 2-1/4" into 2-1/2" 409 SS mandrel-bent tubing
• Quality band clamps for a secure seal
• Factory-style flange hardware
• Complete installation hardware kit

Specifications

Manufacturer Part #	48-48026
UPC	802959482643
Brand	aFe Power (Advanced Flow Engineering)
Product Line	Twisted Steel Street Series
Pipe Type	Y-Pipe
Inlet Diameter	2.25 in. (2-1/4")
Outlet Diameter	2.50 in. (2-1/2")
Inlet Attachment	2-bolt flange
Outlet Attachment	Ball and socket flange
Material	409 Stainless Steel
Finish	Natural / Brushed Stainless
Welding	100% Hand MIG-Welded
Oxygen Sensor Bung	Not included (retains factory O2 sensor location)
Catalytic Converter	Not included (retains factory cats)
Country of Origin	USA (Corona, California)
Performance Gains	Up to +8 HP / +14 lb.-ft. Torque (dyno-proven)
Exhaust Type	Single / Rear Exit
Emissions Compliance	Does not require a CARB EO# (retains factory catalytic converters)
Warranty	2-Year Limited Warranty
Approximate Weight	~10–12 lbs.

Fitment & Compatibility

The aFe 48-48026 Twisted Steel Y-Pipe is designed to fit the following vehicles equipped with the V6-3.6L engine:

• 2018–2026 Jeep Wrangler JL — Sport, Sport S, Sahara, Rubicon (2-Door & 4-Door / Unlimited)
• 2020–2026 Jeep Gladiator JT — Sport, Sport S, Overland, Rubicon, High Altitude, Altitude, Launch Edition

Fitment Note: Fits both automatic and manual transmission variants. Compatible with 2-Door and 4-Door Wrangler JL body styles. Verify your engine displacement is V6-3.6L before ordering. Does not fit 4xe plug-in hybrid or 6.4L V8 Wrangler models.

Installation

The aFe 48-48026 is a 100% bolt-on installation that mounts directly to the factory flange locations after the catalytic converter — no cutting, drilling, or modifications required. Included hardware makes for a straightforward swap that most experienced DIYers can complete in under 1–2 hours using basic hand tools (13mm, 17mm, and 18mm sockets recommended). aFe recommends professional installation for best results. Pro tip from owners: coat factory exhaust flange bolts with high-heat anti-seize compound before removal to prevent seized hardware. No ECU tuning or recalibration is required after installation.