Specific exhaust questions for planned mods

[Laredo]

Well, I can't get plates for my "new" 85 until I run it through emission testing, and I can't run it through emission testing until I fix the exhaust (totally shot) - so that will be my first repair/mod. Even though I've been through this forum from almost top to bottom, I still have a few questions based on the mods I'm considering.

Here are long range plans:
1) 35 # injectors, LA3, E6 and square intake
2) Cold air intake, fuel pump, adjustable FPR
3) boost controller, FMIC, and BPV

Nothing wild, just the basic stuff.

I would like to stick with 3" single w/stock appearing dual tips exiting on the driver's side (also so I don't have to mess with moving/changing the external fuel pump). Based on what I've read here, I'll be going with a Magnaflow CAT and muffler. But.......

- Why would there be any benefit to using a full 3" exhaust and premade downpipe that "bolts on" to the the stock 2-1/4 T3 outlet? Wouldn't a 2-1/2 work just as well?

- If I do go with a 3" elbow, I'll need to build some flex into the system. What is the best source / type of flex pipe?

- I have to run a CAT due to emission inspections. Can I mount the Magna CAT sideways w/elbows as the crossover similar to the stock configuration? Does anyone make a bolt-on setup like this?

- I see Stinger makes a chrome dual tip but it's 2-1/4 inlet. Does anyone make these tips with a 3" inlet?

- or....take the Stinger downpipe, Magna CAT and muffler to exhaust shop and have them fab the rest?

[NY eric]

OK why 3" .... Why not? It will only help flow and let you build on later. As far as going 2.5 over the axel to the dual tips it is not so bad. Normally I will put the flex pipe just afte the trans brace then the 45 it to the cat and 45 it again to meet up with the cat back systems. it is mostly a bolt on but any compitent muffler shop will get it done in 1/2 the time.

[gbeaird]

I'd definitely check the laws in your state. Flex pipe is not allowed before the cat (or possibly even before the muffler) in the state of Texas. Verify you can use flex pipe before expending the time and money using it. Just a thought.

Gene Beaird,
86 2R SVO, G Stock,
Pearland, Texas

[bendutro]

Mike, you cropped the wrong frame on your avatar.

[tateg]

That sounds a bit fishy to me as I know of several stock cars that have flex pipe between the engine and the CAT. Some VW models come to mind.

My wife's ford escort wagon had flex pipe just off of the manifold.