Exhaust Fitting Question

A

anastasios87

Member
I have searched quite a bit for an exhaust DIY but haven't come across anything yet so I was wondering if anyone has any more information regarding the installation of an aftermarket exhaust.

As far as I understand the current exhaust system needs to be cut and the new one put in place? (that is what the BMW technician manual is showing anyway..) Is that right?

If so whats the best way to ensure that the modification is easily reversible in case I change my mind or want to swap back for any reason?

Any help appreciated :)
 
This modification is not a true DIY unless you are somewhat handy with tools and have a place to work under the car. Many options, custom or "bolt on", most of which require a muffler shop. Price is also a major factor.

Most will go with a change out of the muffler itself, (back box IIRC) and work with the factory pipes. This is a mod for sound, our oe exhaust flows well and short of a full system change will produce minimal if any increases in horsepower without additional mods. Yes, you start with a cut through of the pipes to remove the can. Depending on the design of the replacement can you should be able to return to original with the use of clamps or minor welding if you want to.

You need to spend more time searching through the many posts on this subject, talk to others at meets, and maybe a visit to some of the local muffler shops. This forum is a wealth of information and is inhabited by those who are knowledgeable and willing to help, but you need to do your part also.
 
The problem with writing posts late at night is that you just type words thinking that other people will know all the facts you didn't state..

But I'll give it another go! I do understand that changing the back box is predominantly a sound mod unless you go to the extent of modifying the whole system headers/cats etc and you will only really see some kind of results if done properly in combination with other mods. I have extensively modified other cars and try to do some of the work myself.

I actually have acquired a blueflame back box for a 3.0 and the only reason I ask is because it doesn't seem to be a straight unbolt the old backbox and bolt/hang the new one in place. Initially I thought it was just the system I bought but looking through the servicing manuals it seems that even for new stock back box you need to cut the two pipes and use the OEM exhaust sleeves to put the new one in place which I found a bit strange as most BMW exhausts I changed so far were sort of a plug and play. Usually in 3 parts... headers/cats or middle section/backbox.

I guess I answered my own question but the reason for my initial post was to see what others have done in terms of fitting their exhaust.

At this point I think I'll be taking it to an exhaust place purely because its a lot easier working with a lift than it is working on the small ramps at home especially since you need to cut the pipework.

I do appreciate the help and although I haven't been here long, I have to agree that this forum has a wealth of information and knowledgeable individuals :)
 
If you pm me your email, I'll send you ACS muffler fitting guide, a well writen step by step for reference (applies to 2003 3.0)

Just can't get anything other than pictures uploaded here :x
 
powerontap said:
If you pm me your email, I'll send you ACS muffler fitting guide, a well writen step by step for reference (applies to 2003 3.0)

Just can't get anything other than pictures uploaded here :x
Click to expand...

pm sent!
 
powerontap said:
If you pm me your email, I'll send you ACS muffler fitting guide, a well writen step by step for reference (applies to 2003 3.0)

Just can't get anything other than pictures uploaded here :x
Click to expand...

Received this. Thanks!

It is pretty much what I expected as you need to cut it between the two middle boxes and fit the new one.
 
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