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DIY Downpipe Install on 335xi - Almost but not quite
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08-30-2010, 12:14 AM | #1 |
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DIY Downpipe Install on 335xi - Almost but not quite
I have been planning on installing DPs on my 335xi for the last several weeks. Due to my location, it would have to be a DIY job. I studied the BMW TIS and Bentley manual, and acquired necessary tools.
Things went fairly smoothly until the actual removal of the DPs (see below for full description). If anybody has advice on how to get beyond this step, then I can put together a DIY for this project. As recommended by the BMW TIS and Bentley, I did the following: 1. Removed passenger side axle/CV 2. Removed bearing pedestal 3. Disconnected O2 sensors 4. Unclamped stock DPs at wastegates 5. Unclamped stock DPs from hanger/bracket 6. Unclamped stock DPs from catback Initially this seemed to provide enough room to negotiate the stock DPs around the subframe. I was trying to remove the front turbo DP (cylinder 1-3) first as the rear turbo DP is totally hidden behind the front DP. To my total irritation, I could not get the front DP out. I tried pulling the DP straight down (where the bearing pedestal normally would be). I also tried rotating it outwards (where the CV and steering knuckle are normally located). No matter what I did, the back end of the DP (where it joins with the catback) could not clear the crossmember (that is part of the subframe. This was cut by a member who I think later came to regret it). At this point there are only four options left: 1. Remove small heat shield attached to the back right corner of subframe. This would be difficult as one of the screws is very difficult to access, and I'm doubtful this will provide enough room to make a difference. 2. Loosen steering rack as is done for installing DPs on RWD models. I don't think this will work since you can't slide the steering rack forward as it would bump into the subframe. 3. Drop subframe about 2 inches. Doable, but a giant PITA. 4. Cut the stock DPs. Don't want to do this since I want the option of reinstalling stock DPs at later date. Can anybody offer any help or suggestions? |
08-30-2010, 12:41 PM | #3 |
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The more I think about it, the more I am convinced that dropping the subframe 1-2 inches would be easiest (after removing bearing pedestal). That would have given me enough clearance to get the front DP out.
Unfortunately, I had not considered that option before starting (since the TIS doesn't indicate it's necessary) and wasn't really prepared to drop the subframe. But I did figure out a few things about the CV joints, seals, and differential. Replacing the CVs would be fairly straightforward. Anyone interested can feel free to send me a pm. |
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09-05-2010, 12:15 AM | #4 |
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How did the install finish up? Which DP's did you pick up?
I was thinking of doing the install but using a sawsall to cut the stock DPs and just slide the catless DP's in without doing the whole axle thing.
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09-05-2010, 12:32 AM | #5 |
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Dropping the subframe is the easiest way to go. Routine xi installs usually take 2.5 hours.
It's really not as hard as everyone thinks. Just need some extra shop tools and a lift. |
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09-05-2010, 01:35 AM | #6 |
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Yeah, I think on my next attempt I will start by dropping the subframe, and see if that gets me enough room to remove the stock pipes without touching the axle.
Pulling the CV and bearing pedestal made it easier to access to the DPs and O2 sensors, but it would be nice to avoid that altogether. Any tips on dropping the subframe would be appreciated. Doesn't look very complicated: slightly elevate engine with cherry picker to unload subframe, pull the six fasteners and lower it down on jacks. The TIS indicates the steering column needs to be disconnected from the rack, but I'm hoping there is enough play in it to avoid doing so. |
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09-05-2010, 01:45 AM | #7 | |
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If I can get the stock DPs out by only dropping the subframe without pulling the CV, then it will save a lot of time and hassle. This approach may be straightforward enough to try instead of cutting the OEM pipes. Let me know if you have any questions. I will put together a DIY after completing the install. |
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09-05-2010, 08:26 AM | #8 | |
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This is usually the easiest way to do it. It will take another person to assist you in this. Where are you located? |
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09-05-2010, 02:49 PM | #9 |
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I've got a buddy who is a skilled mechanic. He helped with the first attempt, and I will undoubtedly get his help for attempt #2. Thanks for your input.
Last edited by HERR FSTIR; 09-13-2010 at 01:55 PM.. |
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12-18-2010, 08:48 PM | #10 | |
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12-18-2010, 10:38 PM | #11 |
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Do you have to get an alignment afterwards if you drop the subframe?
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04-15-2011, 02:29 PM | #13 |
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going to give this a shot soon. so how doable is this in your garage by yourself with 2 jacks and some jack stands? is this like a whole day thing or what? any tips? should i just cut the dp's off? haha
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04-15-2011, 04:23 PM | #14 |
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It's doable if you're patient. You'll get the O2's out and factory downpipes completely disconnected, then have to drop the subframe to squeeze them out towards the back of the car between the subframe and unibody.
Even when the subframe is hanging by the suspension, I still didn't have enough room, so had to pry the subframe down even further to slide the factory downpipes out and new downpipes in. Took me the better part of a day since it was my first time and I also put in an intercooler. Cutting isn't necessary or recommended, but if you do, you'll still have to drop the subframe to get the new downpipes in place. |
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04-15-2011, 09:48 PM | #16 | |
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Replace the pole jacks with actual pump jacks, and you can accomplish the same thing. I can usually get them in and out in 2 hours, provided they actually fit right. |
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04-19-2011, 07:32 PM | #17 | |
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04-19-2011, 07:36 PM | #18 |
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08-15-2011, 11:40 AM | #19 |
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08-27-2011, 04:12 PM | #20 | |
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Might just have to make a trip to nyc this weekend |
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09-07-2011, 01:12 PM | #21 |
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Vishnu Catless Downpipe Install Instructions N55
Just got my Vishnu Kittyless DP. I am having it installed next week. Robert sent me instructions on the install for the N55. I thought I would post it up and hope it may help others.
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01-03-2012, 03:56 PM | #22 |
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Good information here. So my CL DPs have been taunting me long enough, time to get them on. After reading this I feel more confident about install information/tips/duration/etc. but aside from the above post, is there anything I should know post install with respect to codes and whatever else?
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