[bimmerfan1972]

Originally Posted by flapeo

I did my vrsf catless downpipe on my 2011 335xi without dropping the subframe. It was the biggest pain in the ass ever, imo i would just take it to a shop or drop the subframe.

Kudos, I can't imagine how you did that. There is so little room in there even with the subframe out. I had the worst time trying to get the vband clamp on. I had a gasket that I was trying to put in between the dp and the turbo and abandoned that, so who knows how much exhaust is leaking out. It's pretty damn tight though, so maybe nothing to worry about.

[flapeo]

Originally Posted by bimmerfan1972

Kudos, I can't imagine how you did that. There is so little room in there even with the subframe out. I had the worst time trying to get the vband clamp on. I had a gasket that I was trying to put in between the dp and the turbo and abandoned that, so who knows how much exhaust is leaking out. It's pretty damn tight though, so maybe nothing to worry about.

i bought a longer bolt for the v band at lowes and went through the wheel well, that was honestly the hardest part.

[bimmerfan1972]

Originally Posted by flapeo

i bought a longer bolt for the v band at lowes and went through the wheel well, that was honestly the hardest part.

Why didn't I think of that. A longer bolt would help.

[flapeo]

yeah the bolt they provide is IMO a bit short lol

[scotthilly]

Not cheap, but absolutely love my M Performance Exhaust. Tiny drone in 1500 rpm range but other than that nothing. Sounds diesel-y, which I love, and isn’t too obnoxious. I love OEM stuff too and would much prefer that over aftermarket.

[RoarinForeign]

I have done the downpipe on my n55 X drive e92 twice now. Once to go catless years ago, and I had to put the stock cat back in to for an emissions test a few weeks ago. Lowering the subframe isn’t necessary. Just need to get the exhaust low enough to get it out. Little bit of turning to get the 02s thru the whole. Catless goes in and out much easier. I’ve found the best way to do the v band is to clamp it around with your fingers and hold it closed with one hand; then putting the bolt in once everything’s aligned. Just need to squeeze your hands in there. You can’t let go of the vband or it’ll fall off so plan accordingly.

Catless DP + Tee mod sounds great in my opinion. Quiet enough when cruising to not draw attention, but screams at WOT. I’m considering the PE mod with new tips while I have the cat in. X drive cars come with mid pipe cats as well. So maybe delete those when getting the PE mod done.