Downpipe Tuning
Downpipe Tuning – What Does the Downpipe Add to the Equation?
Downpipes are one of the most popular tuning options on account of their great, unmistakably rich sound. But great sound is by no means the only thing a downpipe has to offer. You can also count on a serious performance boost if you replace the humdrum series part with a downpipe.
2.5L TFSI Audi RS3 8V & TTRS 8S downpipe plus TÜV/EWG HJS
What is a downpipe?
The downpipe is the pipe that connects the turbocharger to the exhaust system. As such, it’s generally located between the turbo and the centre muffler. The downpipe can be used standalone or as part of a sport exhaust, in which case it replaces the exhaust pipe installed as standard. Since it has a larger diameter, a downpipe reduces exhaust back pressure, significantly enhancing performance – and driving thrills! – when combined with other tuning steps.
What parts does a downpipe consist of and what diameter should it have?
Depending on the model, downpipes consist of the connection flange for the turbocharger, a threaded connection for the lambda sensor, a flexible hose, plus a pre-cat and main cat. The flexible hose curbs vibrations and reduces stress on the exhaust system during acceleration. This stops the individual components of the exhaust system coming apart from each other and improves durability.
The catalytic converters keep emission values compliant. They filter pollutants out of the exhaust gases, and depending on their design and material, can also help reduce exhaust gas accumulation. If you’re itching to know more, check out the information on our sport cats.
The preferred material for downpipes is stainless steel, as it easily withstands high thermal stress. It’s also highly corrosion resistant.
As for the right diameter, it depends on your spec. A wider downpipe diameter always increases flow rate and therefore boosts performance and response.
What are the advantages of a downpipe?
Tuning the downpipe actually has a lot of advantages, mainly when you combine it with engine characteristics optimisation (chip tuning). This fine-tunes the software to match the hardware perfectly, giving you yet another significant boost in performance. As the downpipe has a larger diameter, it reduces stress on the turbo charger, which can blow more exhaust gas through a wider pipe because the back pressure is much lower than with the series part. It also helps cool the exhaust gases, which translates to a noticeable increase in torque. The rich sound of a downpipe is an unadulterated joy; if you’re into motorsport, it’ll blow you away. All things considered, a downpipe is a great performance-boosting option for any car with a turbocharger and a driver with sporty ambitions.
The advantages at a glance:
- Lower exhaust back pressure
- A richer, sportier sound
- Higher torque
- Improved turbo response
- Longer turbo service life
- More hp when combined with chip tuning
- Lower fuel consumption
Downpipes and vehicle inspections – what you need to look out for
(This article refers to German regulations; be sure to check the regulations in your own country.)
Obviously you want to install the downpipe yourself. With the right tool and a little know-how, it’s time-consuming but not very hard. However, you have to get the conversion approved under the vehicle inspection system (TÜV in Germany), otherwise you won’t get far on public roads. To obtain the approval it has to meet certain standards. Our advice: opt for one of our downpipes plus TÜV. Lots of manufacturers also provide approval information on their datasheets and websites.
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Want to build your own downpipe?
No worries – you just need the experience, the know-how and the tools. But if you’re a tuning newbie, you’re better off having it installed by a pro at the garage. The approval can very quickly put a spanner in the works – not to mention the manufacturer’s guarantee, and, of course, your safety.
Downpipe kit universal for self-building from BAR-TEK®
Can be delivered in 5 to 8 days
Can be delivered in 5 to 8 days
Any questions?
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