CJGerard

I am getting ready to install my Racing Beat catback system in my 88 convertible. I just wanted see if anyone has tips on the best installation sequence. Is it best to hang the mufflers, then install the Y pipe, or is if better to do Y pipe then mufflers, or install it as one unit. Any thoughts would be appreciated

Hot_Dog

IMO, the sequence of installation doesn't make any difference, but I wouldn't install it as a single unit. You'll need to get the exhaust system aligned before tightening all the bolts. I'd also recommend replacing all the rubber donuts and hangers. New rubber donuts are tight and can sometimes be a bitch to hook on to the muffler hooks.

j9fd3s

iTrader: (3)

+1. the mufflers are a PITA to get the hangers on, so i probably do those first, and then put all the bolts in and have them be just snug, make sure its aligned and then tighten.

CJGerard

Thanks for the info, I did get all new hangers. I was thinking mufflers first just because the donuts look like they will be hard and once the mufflers are on it should be pretty easy to do the Y pipe

Hot_Dog

I first installed a RB cat-back on my S5 non-turbo back in Feb 2006. Back then, I think I installed the y-pipe first followed by the mufflers. The y-pipe is steel, but the muffler cans are stainless steel. The y-pipe will eventually rust. I replaced my original RB y-pipe back in July 2019 along with a new high-flow cat. When I replaced my original y-pipe, I just left the muffler cans hanging. So, you can say I've done this both ways and IMO there wasn't much of an advantage either way. IDK, it might be slightly easier hanging the cans first because it would give you slightly more flexibility in maneuvering the muffler cans to install the tight two new rubber donuts. Also, you might want to put a little lube (i.e., either water, silicone spray or brake fluid) on the donuts to help them slide over the muffler hooks. These donuts can be a bitch to install.

Hot_Dog

You might also need new spacers/insulators between the rubber hangers and the y-pipe. The original Mazda spacer/insulator consisted of a thick laminated asbestos washer, which obviously is no longer available. This washer will eventually de-laminate and the pieces will either fall-off or get lost. I replaced these asbestos pieces with High-Temperature PEEK Plastic Washer for M16 Screw Size, 17 mm ID, 30 mm OD available from McMaster-Carr (p/n 93785A222). At that time I used three of these washers on each side, but probably now need to go back and put in a fourth to tighten it up. There's a photo of these spacers in my original post (https://www.rx7club.com/2nd-generati...-week-1137807/).

CJGerard

Thanks for the washer information, I had not even heard about needing them

NCross

iTrader: (18)

I start at the front and work my way back.

HighTopFade

Are there alternative exhaust hangers anyone can recommend? The OEM ones are kinda pricy. Thanks.

Hot_Dog

RockAuto sells aftermarket hangers (https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...insulator,5844). I bought a couple of the Walker hangers just to checkout, but they looked like crap so I bought Mazda hangers instead.