Hey everybody -

I've noticed there isn't a week that goes by that a new owner doesn't ask "which downpipe should I get?" So, I wrote up a FAQ that will hopefully address most of the new guy questions -

http://www.clubrx.org/default.asp?id...ntent=30&mnu=5

If you guys see something that I should put in there, something wrong, etc. please let me know!

I always feel bad when people tell newbies to search on this question, as there really is no good definitive bunch of information on downpipes - it's scattered all over creation. If it's hard to find, people won't find it .

Anyhoo, let me know if there's anything I should change/add.

Thanks,
Dale

 

Hello-

Cool!

I'd add two things... First, spool time. The spool with a downpipe is faster, especially in 1st gear. Second, noise. The downpipe makes turbo whine MUCH louder. This can be nice... or annoying. Adding header wrap does decrease the noise notably. I haven't tried it, but I don't suspect that ceramic coating the downpipe would do much in the way of noise.

Take care,
Shad

 

Thanks, Shad - I'll get that updated in the FAQ.

Dale

 

Thanks Dale, good stuff. You might throw in some helpful install steps which can be found in some other threads here. Tell them to replace the gaskets and where to find them (I think I bought a "kit" from rx7.com with bolts etc), and you might also comment on the wisdom of replacing the oxygen sensor while you're at it. Finally, it is a good idea to have a boost gauge before making any mods - then verify you're not overboosting after the install. That's all I can think of!

 

Yeah, I need to research the install process and find some of the "best idea" answers. Real good idea on the O2 sensor, though!

Dale

 

OK, I'm late, but... There is a typo... You wrote:

The downpipe creates 2 problems. First is heat - it's a VERY large chunk of ceramic and cast iron, and it holds a lot of heat under the hood and in the turbos. Second, they are prone to failure - the ceramic block inside the cat breaks and plugs up.

 

You are a great humanitarian.

If I have any questions after I read it, I'll get back to you.


(Nobel Prize Committee, take note of Mr. Clark's many generous contributions.)