While working on the front axle of my 99 I noticed the exhaust head pipe is crimped on two side just below where it bolts to the exhaust manifold.I don't see any clearance issues requiring a crimp in the pipe.Is this something to alter exhaust gas flow for emissions or fuel mileage?
I can cut out the section and easily weld in a non crimped pipe.Any gain to be realized? Or threat it like a sore johnson and don't screw with it?

 

It's to allow adequate clearance when the drivers side of the front axle moves up. The yoke won't clear the the pipe without the indentation.

 

With a lift would you be able to get rid of this neck-down at the collector? I just lifted 3" and before I go throwin a header on I wanna get rid of all the restrictions and run 2.5" from the header back