PPE Downpipes Installed

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EcoBrick Bob

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I had my local shop install my PPE Downpipes today. The cost to install was $280. My Flex mileage was approx. 57,000.

They fit really tight, but clear everything. The biggest issue was all 6 of the nuts on the turbo flanges had to be heated to get them loose. The rears were the hardest because they are not as accessible. the good news was all 4 of the sensor bungs came out easily.

The other issue was the bung for the lambda sensor above the cat on the rear PPE pipe was not centered, so my installer had to grind it out and then re-tap it so the sensor bung would seal properly.

He had to remove the rear heat shield to install the pipe, but was able to re-install the shield afterwards. That also was time consuming.

While I'm pretty handy, there was no way I could have done this at home, and likely not if I had access to a lift, simply because of the difficulty in removing the stock pipes.

I can tell the difference in performance with the stock tune still installed. The turbos seem to be slightly more noticeable, but the overall exhaust sound is not much different than before. Of course I have Magnaflow mufflers on the rear.

I did not install my x-pipe midpipe that deletes the 3rd cat and mid-muffler as I wanted to see how much difference the PPE pipes made by themselves.

I plan to log as stock, then do logging with various tunes. Then I will add my NESHO x-pipe which has been designed to easily bolt in and out.

The PPE pipes with cats retail for $1,000. They gave me a 15% discount.

I would imagine if we could get 5 -10 sales up front, that they would discount 10%-20%. Great to deal with!!!!!
 

EcoBrick Bob

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Because the pipes are larger, including larger diameter cats, they fit tight, but installer issues were mostly because of the issue with the nuts.

I will let Paul at PPE know about the off center bung port.

You need to see these pipes to appreciate the quality and clean welds.

Today, when we drove to pick up our deck boat, the turbos were really noticeable!
They "squeal" just like when I was running the 3 bar tune... and I am otherwise stock! Ready for some tune testing... again...

And.. my wife can't tell the difference in terms of exhaust noise!!!! I need to re-install my Nesho X-Pipe ASAP!
 

SHOdded

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EBB, you really need to make a vid or two of the exhaust sound! I really liked the vid BPD (Mike) had put up, am sure your system would also have a unique growl to it, especially after the NESHO XPipe.
 

EcoBrick Bob

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I put about 200 mi on today. I can hear the turbos ramp up and down, even at 60 mph! My engine temps are running about 4-5 deg cooler than before. With my low temp T-stat, I now see 181-183 F on level pavement. I also noticed my fuel mileage is up an estimated 1-3 mpg.

Only negative so far is that my idle at stop seems to be down at least 100 RPM, idling around 550 RPM or slightly less, which causes the engine to shake the car. Pressing the accelerator to around 700 RPM smooths everything out perfectly.
 

bpd1151

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EBB, you really need to make a vid or two of the exhaust sound! I really liked the vid BPD (Mike) had put up, am sure your system would also have a unique growl to it, especially after the NESHO XPipe.

Yes, yes yes! A few pictures please and a video would be even better.

I've had quite a few compliments with my exhaust set up. Both in the realm of the internet, as well as in person.

Most observers have commented that it sounds really good, aggressive, and more like a V8 than anything.

I hear my turbo's ramping up & down as well EBB. Pretty cool stuff huh?

It's like music to my ears now. In fact, I've been inclined to turn DOWN my radio more often then ever, simply cuz I like hearing both the turbo's, as well as the exhaust singing to me.

Glad to hear you've picked up on these EBB. Enjoy 'em! :thumb:
 

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