Replace flexible head pipe??

[Drumster]

I'm getting 2.5" exhaust plus muffler next week, but only from the flex pipe back...



The above photo is not of my van (borrowed from Brave Auto) but show's the same pipe.

Am I correct in assuming this flexible pipe is the same I/D as the rest of the system? My muffler man is going to leave it in place (for now) but I'm wondering if I should just get rid of it while we're at it. He says the main benefit I'll get will come from the new muffler itself being more open. Alternatively, I could just see how it goes without this section being done and then go back if I really need to.

Your thoughts?

[Mr. Flibble]

If you are going 2.5, do it from the turbo all the way back. As for the flex pipe, depends on what condition it is in now, and how large it is.

You going for cherry bomb glass pack mufflers?

[Drumster]

Mr F, that's definitely my first choice. I will talk to the guy and see what it would involve to replace the entire thing because I'm doing this for a bit of added kick and no other reason. According to what I've read, finding a dump pipe to fit will be very expensive, not to mention the added labour of working up in there. The exhaust system is actually in great shape and technically doesn't need to be replaced.

Also, it seems I was missing some data: I crawled underneath and saw that the current header is a solid pipe attached to dump with only a flexible section a bit further down, ( as compared to being flex all the way from dump, as I previously thought). It looks like the flex bit is meant to absorb vibration, along with the rubber mounts and could therefore be worth retaining. I'm going to ask him to re-use or replicate the same rubber mounting system too.

Not sure what muffler; he mentioned a brand, Flow Master maybe? "Cherry Bomb" sounds like it might be loud no? Are they good & do they last long?

Cheers!

If you are going 2.5, do it from the turbo all the way back. As for the flex pipe, depends on what condition it is in now, and how large it is.

You going for cherry bomb glass pack mufflers?

[thelazygreenfox]

Guys The flex pipe is also to allow for the expansion of the exhaust manifold when it's red hot.
TLGF

[Drumster]

Here's what we have...



Original hangers were retained per my request, except the rear one which had to be altered.





... I'll have to go back regarding that rear hanger because although it's on the stock rubber bushing, it's not as tight as when it was bolted in place so there's a bit of play; enough that it rattles at certain RPMs in reverse.

Otherwise it's all good. This was $428. all in at Budget "Broken" Muffler at 104th & Whalley Thing road is Surrey. Gary's the only guy to deal with in there. I've known him for years.


The advice he gave me was that the system's main restriction was the muffler itself. Although 2.5" all the way would probably be better, what I settled for is 2.5" from where you see the main weld here, plus a Flowmaster can. Saved a lot of $$ that way and am set to install my propane system in the near future.

[Drumster]

I called Gary & he was very quick to fix it up; just needed a fatter hook to fit the hole in original rubber grommet thingy. Hooks come in one size so he welder a second piece along side the first. Problem solved. All is quiet on the western front.