Decent custom/generic exhaust components

Post by **benpineapple** » 08 Apr 2016, 11:21

Talking about my 98 V70 AWD, with the 2.4L turbo. Found a couple threads on using generic exhaust components for NA, but couldn't find anything comprehensive on the turbo exhaust systems.

My V70 has developed a couple small leaks at the DS rear muffler, and I'm hoping to replace items 8, 9, and 10 in the diagram.

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It's a little noisy, no exhaust smell in the cabin or anything. Also going to replace the cat, but I'll use OEM from FCP for that.

Even a decent aftermarket dual exhaust part (PN 9470673) runs anywhere between 400 and 550, with the OEM from the dealer being way way more than that. Was chatting with my little brother (diesel mechanic with International) who advised against buying a premade system like that. He recently got a decent stainless system for his 92 Honda Prelude, and said buying pre-bent stuff is a mistake, telling me I should get generic mufflers and just do all the pipe work myself. Is this a bad idea? Good idea?

I did a full exhaust job on my 1990 240 4 years ago, got OEM mufflers, but bent my own pipes with no problems; so don't worry, I've bent pipes and welded hangers before.

My main concerns going forward, is I'd have no idea how loud a generic muffler system would be. And I would have no idea what kind of dual mufflers to get, that would allow proper flow. My rudimentary understanding is that the wrong muffler could allow too much flow, or not enough flow, causing big performance and emissions issues.

Anyone have experience with making their own dual muffler systems successfully?

Post by **scot850** » 08 Apr 2016, 12:04

Good luck on the Volvo parts, in particular the dual system which is NLA. Part #8 was available the last I checked though. It may be the one best to have as it is a pain to fit up over the rear axle on the AWD.

I have a Eurosport supplied dual 'stainless' system fitted. It is junk as far as I am concerned. I'll look for a custom solution when I need another system in the not too distant future. The reason I say the Eurosport system is junk is that most aftermarket systems claim to be 'stainless' steel but actually use cheap and nasty T407 steel. If you build one use T304 for long lasting mufflers.

Neil.

Post by **matthew1** » 08 Apr 2016, 12:31

Performance exhausts for volvos

That might help.

Post by **benpineapple** » 08 Apr 2016, 12:46

Thanks for the heads up on the Eurosport brand, Neil. I'm unfortunately all-too-familiar with the pitfalls of T407/409 vs T304 stainless steel from past experience.

Thanks Matthew, looks like that thread addresses everything except for the concern of flow, which I'm guessing is a non-issue for the right brands.

Post by **850 LPT** » 08 Apr 2016, 13:01

scot850 wrote:Good luck on the Volvo parts, in particular the dual system which is NLA. Part #8 was available the last I checked though. It may be the one best to have as it is a pain to fit up over the rear axle on the AWD.

I have a Eurosport supplied dual 'stainless' system fitted. It is junk as far as I am concerned. I'll look for a custom solution when I need another system in the not too distant future. The reason I say the Eurosport system is junk is that most aftermarket systems claim to be 'stainless' steel but actually use cheap and nasty T407 steel. If you build one use T304 for long lasting mufflers.

Neil.

I'm in the same boat. The Eurosport exhaust is complete junk. Mine went through two winters and it is totally rusted. I would have never spend the money on it if I had known beforehand.

We have a custom exhaust shop in town and I was going to stop by some time and see if they can build me something for a reasonable price out of T304.
The trick is to find mufflers that are just right and not too loud. Same concern as benpineapple.

Post by **matthew1** » 08 Apr 2016, 13:22

Over the years here I've seen just as many people happy having a custom job done at a good local performance exhaust shop as with a kit. It's a strange thing - we're used to astronomical labor charges for work - so having something done for us is foreign, yucky. We have a natural inclination to avoid this. But exhausts are different because they're so common across all cars.

Post by **scot850** » 08 Apr 2016, 14:59

I plan to go talk to a guy whose number I was given that works out of his garage. The muffler-shop that gave me his number said they have seen his work and it is a work of art. He used to work in the oil patch and was a lecturer in the local college so should be interesting to see what it costs. Naturally I will update you all as/when I have more info. I will specify T304 only to be used. I know it is harder to work but if you only have to do it once. I'll talk to him also on the chances he might want to make more.

Neil.

beigg · Post by **beigg** » 09 Apr 2016, 21:00

I did a downpipe to mid section about two years ago. Knowing the materials to properly use versus what I had on hand to get back on the road was my dilemma.
Used 3" ID 304 stainless for the most part, but used mild steel for one bend I had no choice with. All mandrel bends and a braided flex bellow. It's holding up well, but the areas I did not replace are now starting to decay.
It is louder than stock and will not pass the sniffer tester. The performance woke up a bit and nothing vibrates. Also I dont have any drone issues.

If I have time, the goal is to redo it all DP back to tailpipe and use 3 OD 304 with one resonator and one muffler. The intended purpose is to not have carbon monoxide poisoning, have nothing banging around, and not reduce stock peak power. Should it perform better than OEM, pass any tests, and sound good, well that's all a plus!