coastertrav

Do you guys normally run a flex section on your downpipe? I noticed the factory exhaust doesn't have one and that would save me $50.

patsmx5

iTrader: (16)

I was wondering this too. I see some do and some don't. I know some do because it helps take the load off the manifold, that is, the weight of the turbo and exhaust pulling down on it.

paul

iTrader: (21)

no flex section here.

Arkmage

iTrader: (3)

it has nothing to do with weight... it's that the catback is on hangers attached to the car body which doesn't torque with the engine. so basically everytime you rev or load the engine and it rocks to the side you are torque loading you downpipe. Not so stellar. If you don't want to pay for or use a flex section just put a bracket in that bolts to your bellhousing (like stock) and you won't over stress the turbo/manifold.

Efini~FC3S

iTrader: (4)

I have one at the end of my downpipe. I would recommend using one.

musanovic

iTrader: (2)

use it if you can will save you broken hangers or cracked welds in the future. ebay them i think i paid $36 for my and it is 3" stainless.

coastertrav

Yeah, I think I will end up using one, I just wanted to know how needed one was.

m2cupcar

iTrader: (5)

I do because I run a paper thin ssautochrome mandifold

xveganxcowboyx

iTrader: (2)

They are also helpful in DIY exhausts that might not be perfectly aligned. They give you a little "wiggle room" when it comes to fitment.

jayc72

iTrader: (14)

If my BEGI DP didn't have the flex section it wouldn't have fit.