Performance Exhaust System
 

So I've been thinking about getting an exhaust system for my 02 3.0 for over a year now, and I think I'm finally ready to get one. I just had an X pipe installed a few days ago, and it didn't do much in sound because of the big ass mufflers the 3.0 has. I was thinking of going with supersprints. Someone has the right side for sale for about 350 but I would have to order the other side new for a little over 850. So that would run me 1200 without installation.

The newest option I considered was getting a custom made exhaust system from a local shop here. He will make 2.25 or 2.5 inch piping leading to magnaflow mufflers. This would run me somewhere from 600-850 with installation. I'm a little skeptical about how it may end up sounding. I'm looking for deep, and significantly loud and noticeable.

What do you guys think? Any suggestions on different systems or options?

*EDIT: MOD COMPLETE! THANKS EVERYONE FOR YOUR INPUT*

***UPDATE: SOUND CLIPS: YouTube - Magnaflows on BMW X5 3.0i
YouTube - Magnaflows BMW X5 3.0i (in cabin)
YouTube - Magnaflows on BMW X5 3.0i (start up)***

Tough choice! But if it were me I would go with the custom exhaust by the local shop just because I like my X to be unique. Plus I don't have thousands to spend on high-end/over priced exhaust systems. Just my 2 cents. :D

That is what I am leaning towards. But will it sound good? If I dive into this and it doesn't, then I will be wasting more than a thousand..

Its your choice. I'm sure the exhaust will be louder than stock with the x-pipe, but you have an idea in your head on what you want it to sound like. If you are concerned about spending all that money on a custom exhaust and it not being up to your expectations then just shell out for the supersprints or AC Schnitzer exhaust.

What up Moh!!?!?!

...as you know I did the AFE with the resonator delete Xpipe Mod..and then finished her off with the Supersprint.....

This is the bottom line.....The X runs a bit quicker........sounds way better than stock.....especially after having it on for 8 months....my bitch growls.....

.now then.....it does not and will not ever sound like a 4.8is......an 89 mustang gt.....or a ferrari....but it is definitley improved from the stock sound....which there was none;)
So..in the end I did it for some sound and looks....and minimal performance...

I hope that this helps..

Rich:thumbup:

thanks rich. ya i have the AFE and x pipe mod too. and i want the supersprints don't get me wrong. but they are pretty pricey. so if i can get the same sound from a custom exhaust i think i might do that. i talked to the guy again today and he told me magnaflow makes round mufflers and it would be the loudest option for my vehicle without it sounded too weird and without losing performance. he wants to do all of that for like $820. About half the price of a brand new supersprint system. I don't know.. I'm really undecided.

But rich a sound clip would be reaaaally helpful :D. let someone video tape you with your phone or something, please !

Id probably lean towards a custom setup as well. thats what I have on my e60 too, custom quad magnaflow. all in all I think I paid around $600 with tips and install.

Nerweezy. hook him up man give him some discount.

:iagree: ::thumbup:

MtX5. do you want Dinan exhuast?

Someone on this boards wants to sell theirs => http://www.xoutpost.com/570592-post4.html

Right in MtX5's price range too!

Take off resonator and mufflers run x pipe. You'll be very happy if you like your X to be loud. Go with your muffler shop, they normally know their bussiness.

mrbmwx5 and dkl; thanks for the suggestions about the dinan exhaust. I saw that it on this board for sale as well. the problem with the dinan exhaust is its just not that loud, just like the seller said. I would love to go with the eisenmann race exhaust like the seller did but that things like over 2k :wow:

I didn't go with the straight pipe option because i have a 3.0. straightpipes would mess with the back pressure and i would notice a loss in power. i went with the x pipe in place of the resonator. I was considering doing straight pipes after the x pipe but the guy said that would still mess with the back pressure. now if i had a V8, i might have gone with the straight pipe option.

My bad.. I really meant X pipe, resonator and muffler delete. I have this set up but kept the resonator, was just too loud for my taste. But if you want maximum loudness go with the 3 mods I recommended. :thumbup:

Thanks. Do you have a 3.0 or V8? Also, do you happen to have a soundclip? I would really appreciate one just to get an idea.

I too am looking for an exhaust, but don't have 15 bills to drop on it. Was looking at the Remus, but what are the major issues (if I'm just looking for the sound) of purchasing the mufflers and having them welded on? The whole system (pipes and all) only claims a 5 - 10hp anyways.

Def. go custom route, I did all new pipeing from the headers back 2.5 inch, with magnaflow high flow cats and magnaflow muffler sound fucking sick, I had the guy custom make my tips to the new pipe size, one of the best exhaust jobs i have ever seen,

A sound clip would be reaaaally nice,so let us hear it.;)

Expectations for the sound of a 3.0 and a v8 should not be the same.

Of course not. That is why I am targeting the 3.0 members here. I'm trying to get as deep and loud as possible. I don't want to end up being mistaken for a honda civic :rolleyes:

I personally wouldn't get the remus. I know many people who have gotten it but got bored of it fast and moved on. If you want just mufflers, you have alot of options. I might be getting the magnaflows soon, will let you know how those turn out..

Sorry, I knew you weren't - I was saying it to V8 posters.

Another vote for the custom exhaust at your local shop with magnaflo mufflers. Significantly less expensive.

sound wise...hard to tell without actually hearing it...and then it's too late if you don't like it. But I would think if the guy is good, he's probably done lots of them - maybe not to X5's but to similar size cars. Ask him if he could give you a reference to a customer he's done with a similar setup.

I just sold my 04' 4.4 and took off the exhaust (Einsmann Race w/4x83mm tips) I loved the way it sounded, I might be selling it here if my buddy dosent want to buy it.(he has to clear it with his wife!)http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z...8/DSC00011.jpg
http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z...8/DSC00009.jpg

I'm running Remus and never get bored of it. V8 sound clip is in my sig... lots of 3.0 exhaust vids on youtube.

eisenmann race.. thats a pricey one. But i can imagine it sounding amazing. how much would you be listing it for if his wife doesnt approve? probably still over my budget :rofl:

you have a V8 though. So you get that deep rumble regardless. On a 3.0 .. well... its just not that great IMO.

i think i might be a guinea pig and test it out.. im meeting him tomorrow and we are going to get into details and probably order the parts.

Yeah, thought I'd post it for you anyways just for fun. :cool: 3.0's with modified exhaust sound OK - It will grow on you.

this thread got a lot of replys pretty fast.

I bought it for $2300 + shipping, so i was thinking $1700 shipped is reasonable, it is in perfect condition, I'd even throw in four new spring bolts. but like i said earlier my buddy has first dibs.
http://www.ind-distribution.com/deta...make=44&part=1

awesome exhaust. good price. still out of my budget though. hopefully your buddy gets it or some other lucky member. what size are those tips?

guess im sticking with the magnaflow custom setup. this has to work! *crosses fingers* :thumbup:

Exhaust tips are 83mm each,
Good luck with the Magnaflow route.

Thanks I put in the order today. HOPEFULLY all goes well and it sounds awesome. might be finding out this thursday! i'll let you all know.

I had a fabricated exhaust from MIJ performance this was custom made. It has x2 oval rears same as 4.8. They totally removed the silencers and fabricated these in place to come through the bumper slots. Looks good, sounds unique and nothing what you would think from a diesel. Also it not to loud it just sounds more throaty as a car like this should. Getting better fuel economy as well.
Will post some pics in the next few days.

I have a 3.0i with the Supersprints and straight pipes. It sounds pretty awsome...but I was curious about what you mentioned losing power and the back pressure with the straight pipe. I'm not sure if I sure if I actually noticed anything, but sometimes I feel itmight not be pulling as hard, not really sure. I am considerng to switching to the X pipe.

nickjc001,

Nice mod..can't wait to see those pics....:thumbup:

note. I did the same mods in my 02 E53 X5 3.0d euro...:D

i mean i'm no mechanic and someone correct me if i'm wrong, but this is what i understood. basically you need some backpressure for power. if you allow it all to escape too quickly, as in putting straight pipes in the 3.0, there will be little or no back pressure created, and you will lose that power, but it will sound great. the x pipe allows the two pipes' exhaust to mix in then split back in to two pipes, creating back pressure, and no loss of power (possible increase). it might all be in my head, but i feel a bit of a power gain when i hit the throttle after putting the x pipe.

you are correct

i keep wondering, where did you get your carbon fiber stickshift cover thing?

Apparently on diesels the Cat or Cats does most silencing. Also being turbo charged it does not need back pressure as this is created by the turbo and tuned to match this. I am amazed of the sound of the straight six diesel and think it was a good mod for the money. I was not after added performance as if i wanted more power i would get it chipped. Waiting for the snow to lay off so can get the sponge out give it a wash and post some pics.

oh, interesting. ya i don't know much about diesel. i was referring to gasoline vehicles.



and everyone tomorrow the magnaflows get put on!! hopefully it turns out well in sound and performance.

looking forward to seeing it on man =)

Yes that sounds like is a logical explanation, I might go switch to an X pipe and see what happens...will probably sound completely different. How would the straight pipes benefit the V8, in this case each bank would have a separate exhaust? Good luck with your set up!!

I would also be interested in pics and sound clip as I am considering custom mufflers too...

I was thinking if my setup works out, since he has all the measurements, (not sure if the V8 is the same as the 3.0), but if it is, he can make more systems. I'm sure he'll cut a deal for members.

I can weld the mufflers in myself, and if I don't have time (as I didn't last time) I have an exhaust shop friend that hooks me up! More of just hearing different setups to make the decisions.

And yes, the 3.0i and V8 have the same measurements, at least for placement, for the rear part fo the exhaust. (flanges back)

Alright guys the magnaflows are on! it sounds WAAY better than anticipated. I highly recommend it. I think it might blow away the supersprint system haha. I have some pictures for now, whats the best way to get the videos up here? Im thinking youtube, but any other options?

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/p...2052009603.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/p...2052009602.jpg

http://i395.photobucket.com/albums/p...2052009601.jpg


So there definately is some kind of performance gain. Sounds great (i have the clips just need to get them up). My only complaint is the positioning of the tips. I feel like they are sticking out too much, and the right one is a little sideways. im going to have to get that fixed..

im glad that the magnaflow did wonders. you can probably host through youtube or just plain photobucket if you're uploading pics from there as well. can i see a back shot of the X ? the tips seem to stick about a bit more or is it just me? and btw how much did the exhaust cost you

I guess it's much louder than the x-pipe and stock mufflers. I'm really curious how it sounds!

2nd everything.
Also great posting and keeping us updated on this, you have me sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for that sound clip! Cause this is the route I will probably have to go due to $moneyda$ I leave for Poland on Sat. for two weeks, got my fingers crossed to hear it before then ;) Thanks again!

+1 for soundclip =)

Very interesting thread. Looking forward to the soundclip as well.

mtX5, well done in going out on a limb on this one.

MTX5...pics with the car on the ground would be nice :D and i can hear it in my head already i bet it is very very lound due to those skinnies mufflers.:thumbup:

Looks like your car could use a bath lol. Can't wait for sound clips.

Thanks guys! Yeah it does sound amazing. Very loud/deep. Its the exhaust sound i wanted without the price tag. It ran me $825 for 2.25'' piping, 4 ft round magnaflow mufflers, and 2 tips and installation. I will get some more pictures of it on the ground soon, but after I correct some issues with the tips. They are sticking out a bit more than they should in my opinion, and the passengers side tip is a a little bit crooked.

As for the sound clip, I will work on getting it up by tonight or tomorrow. I just need to find somewhere to upload it.

Allight Moh!!! Nice!!!

Can't wait to hear~~ :stickpoke

Hey ...easy on the SuperSprint comments!! LOL!! I like the purr of my exhaust! LOL!!

Actually you will probably have a soundclip up waaay before I ever get around to it!!

RR

Congrats on the install, glad to hear you are happy with it.
BTW my buddy's wife nixed the Einsemann so its now up for sale $1700.

Try one of these free sites:
http://chaos-laboratory.com/2007/08/...hosting-sites/

If you send the clips to me, I will host them for you, without any loss of quality.

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u...5/DSC00190.jpg
Here is my X5 3.0d Sport with custom exhausts... Will post more later when washed etc :thumbup:

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u...5/DSC00192.jpg

Nick....great looking set up!!

Can't wait to see some pics all cleaned up!

RR:thumbup:

where did you get those tips?

Hey guys I got an in cabin clip for you. You can really feel it in the car at the 2000RPM -2500 RPM range. I uploaded this one on youtube, and it was DVD quality (off my nokia n95 8GB) so be sure to click on 'high quality'.. anyways let me know what you think.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-aq_6rJ41g

I don't want to post the sound from outside on youtube because I don't think its a good idea to broadcast my license plates to the world. Anyone have an idea on how to block it out? if i hit private but i put the link here can you guys still see it?

Moh!! Nice my man!!

Very good note!

Redline...redline.....redline!!! Baby!!!

RR:thumbup:

definitely sounds nice...

As for outside...you should just leave the camera on the exhaust w/o the plate being viewed and get in the car and rev a lil...or just cover the plate with something :)

[quote=mtX5]Hey guys I got an in cabin clip for you. You can really feel it in the car at the 2000RPM -2500 RPM range. I uploaded this one on youtube, and it was DVD quality (off my nokia n95 8GB) so be sure to click on 'high quality'.. anyways let me know what you think.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-aq_6rJ41g[/quote]


Sweettttt. :2thumbs:

"The URL contained a malformed video ID"

The message I get mr.BMW :(

Nice install, looks like you saved some weight as well.

As far as being able to cut anything out of the exhaust system and replace it with just pipe, what would you recommend chopping out if I want to keep my present factory mufflers for now, but take away some of the resistence?

That http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-aq_6rJ41g sounds really nice.

Tips look cool.

As far as exterior sound clip why not get someone to stand on the edge of a nice long straight road then film you going towards and away from them - redline in 2nd, 3rd & 4th of course. Maybe go back round and let us hear it changing down in manual mode.
Throw a rag over the plates for the 5 minutes that will take. RR said he will pay for any tickets you get :thumbup:

Thanks guys! and Rich I'll be sure to forward my tickets to you haha :rofl:

And about covering the plate/angle out the plate, i was thinking that too, just need to find the time to do it. I had my friends take a few videos but we weren't really thinking about the plate issue. I'll get one up soon, because from outside its even better. Everytime i get in my car I still can't believe the sound, its 100000x better than i ever thought. But one thing that I really enjoy (but i guess some people would not like) is that you can really hear it/feel it inside the car in the 2000-2500 RPM range. But i definitely recommend this mod to anyone who wants to hear their X roar!

If i remember correctly I've seen your black X in your thread and its 4.8? If so, your in luck. Just replacing the resonator with an X pipe would make a BIG difference. I heard Jose's 4.8 (Twinspoppa) with an X pipe and it sounded awesome. If you remove the stock mufflers too your X will REALLY roar. But go with the X pipe first, and if thats not enough move on from there. I started with the X pipe, but since I have a 6 cylinder (which has BIG ASS STOCK MUFFLERS) not much was noticed. But I resolved that issue. :D

:iagree:

thanks guys!

And after a little magic from windows movie maker, i was able to un-professionally blur out the plates (and half the video) heh. I'll try and get a better video up. This will serve its purpose for now..


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnqAm1RqPac

WoWW! Bad ass!! Definitely deeper and louder than my Supersprint!

Great Job!

Rich:thumbup:

Jeez... I just had a bit of fun being retarded with the "audio preview" on youtube's comment box!

Great video. That sounds absolutely awesome. There's no back rap at all, which is perfect. Now you've got me think'n. That's never good. :thumbup:

haha

haha interesting. still, put up a sound clip when you get the chance!

I took some pics today of my factory exhaust system trying to figure out what I can cut and what I have to keep. You guys can probably help with this.
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures010.jpg
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures011.jpg
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures012.jpg
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures013.jpg
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures014.jpg
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures017.jpg

The big resonator/silencer in the second to last picture is what you should change to the x-pipe. Just cut it off right where it meets the rear flanges and reuse the oem flanges.

What if I just get a set up whatever diameter pipes running parallel instead of using the x pipes? I'd probably get the piping cleaned up slightly and run them right to the mufflers, but I'm open to options also.

I've got an awesome muffler guy that has been putting exhaust systems on everything from exotics to tanks and he does beautiful work so if I know what I'm going to do when I get there, he'll just go to work and make it happen.

The problem with running straight pipes is it sounds alot less smooth, raspy even. And at the back of the truck at idle, the exhaust loping is noticably staggered left, right, left, right etc. So it almost sounds like you're running rough with slight missfiring just due to the firing orders sound through dual exhaust. The x-pipe gives a smoother sound that I personally like better.

Thats makes sense then. What if the guy take a huge 4" or 5" pipe and runs both pipes in one side and then comes out the other side and splits again. Is that basicly what the x-pipe does then? Does it matter how big and long the chamber both exhaust pipes run into and out of? Can it be 6" long or a foot or should it really be as long as I can get away with?

Also, would you go bigger with the piping at all or would it matter if a bunch of it's going to get replaced anyway?

If you put a big pipe in place of the x-pipe, that would give the exhaust a big hollow expansion chamber in the middle, effectively making it sound like a teen boys "fast and the rediculus" honda civic with the 6" pipe sticking from under the rear bumper... Not the sound I'd be going for. I'd start with the x-pipe (2.25" is the closest bigger size to the oem metric pipes) then to get louder add a quality aftermarket muffler in place of the oem ones.

And all that is if you don't want to spend the money on bolt on kits.

If you combine it all into one pipe rather than two, you begin to mess with the back pressure. The X pipe will cost you less and is guaranteed to perform well sound and performance wise. I got it on ebay for $79 and installed for $50 (cut out the resonator add the x pipe). Try it; like i said you got a V8 so this mod will make it roar. I heard it on Jose's X (twinspoppa) .

If that isnt enough then you can move on to playing around with the mufflers.

This is what I currently have done, which sounds good from inside the cabin, but has the previously described loping sound when you stand behind it.

I plan to replace the small resonators with an x-pipe, then possibly add QTP electric cutouts further back with turndowns for when I want it to be louder at the flip of a switch. (maybe tax return money...? :D)

http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r...129_091234.jpg

QTP electric cutouts!!! WTF are those?? I'm going to have to research that. Sounds cool. Ok so, to raise another topic, what about replacing the bottle type resinaters on each side with pipe just after coming down from the headers before the O2 sensors, I'm guessing? Has anyone had any great success with cutting those out?

Those are the catalytic converters, and the one member on this forum that had those removed accidentally by a shop not knowing what the "resonator" was didn't even make it home before the check engine light came on... Definitely leave those in!

But for the QTP electric cutouts, here's their website:

http://www.quicktimeperformance.com/QTEC/index.php

And a video of a car with them, closed at first, then open. (many more videos of them in action on there):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42CGa...eature=related

Is that ever F'n cool. I had never heard of that before. I'm totally looking into that today.

Thanks.

Aren't the QTP electric cutouts pricey since alot of custom work must be done?

The units cost about $150 - $170 each if I remember right, but other than welding in the split pipe for the cutout, the only other thing to do is run the wiring for the switch which wouldn't be all to bad in my book.

I'd love to run piping out the side of my X5 just in front of my rear tires but I'm think'n my wife might pick up on that so where would you run the extra set up pipes?

I'd likely just put turn down tips right at the cutouts... no extra pipes that way. Just gotta find the best place to put the cutouts w/actuators. Which from the looks of it are about the same size as a wiper or window motor total size.

if you do go through with this, i'm definately interested to see/hear how it turned out.

I've got a G-Tech Pro RR to test HP, Torque and all that. I'd want to do some test runs for sure before installing them. My boss had a number of original muscle cars back in the day and one of the cars had something like this but you had to get out and push them shut manually. He said the HP gain was noticeable on his big block Superbird.

Thaaaank you technology :bustingup

Tomorrow is my day off and I'm going to visit my exhaust system guy. I hope once he gets it up in the air, he has some good advice for me. We'll see. Wish me luck. If anything happens, video and pics to follow. I'm taking my camera for sure.

Go for the X pipe! it'll make a big difference since you have a v8 ..

.. or glasspacks haha

Well I followed the advice of some of the forum members and got the
x-pipe put in. The first thing I realised while idling was absolutely nothing. I was worried it might be loud and that would be tough to explain to my wife but once I started driving at a slow pace again, not much difference, which again, is nice. It's only when you mash the throttle that the exhaust note comes alive and you can hear the difference. It's definitely not obnoxious but it adds a tasteful growl. I'm more then pleased and I'm pretty sure after getting a closer look at everything under the vehicle I'm going to stop with exhaust upgrades and now work on making the engine inhale better.

http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures021.jpg
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures022.jpg
http://i141.photobucket.com/albums/r...ictures024.jpg

Gofast ... what engine do you have? If you have the 8 cyl you should also notice something when you just start the car - should have a nice bark/growl now. :thumbup:

......0n my 3.0, what differences will I notice if I install the X-pipe.....that same 'bark/growl'?

Gofast, how much did they charge you to install your X-pipe?

MTX5 just did some exhaust mods on his 3.0i, you could ask him how it sounded, then check out how his currently sounds. Check out this thread.

http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...st-system.html

I just did mine on a 4.4 and it sounds awesome. Just right. Certainly
noticeable at start up. I will try to get a clip posted ASAP.

Audio of my 4.8 with X-pipe
 

Alright, just did a quick recording of the X. Not much to see but plenty to hear!

The sound is pretty close to what I hear except I don't think its quite this raspy - especially if you turn up the volume too much. Listen with the volume kinda low. I say this because when I'm singing karaoke I think I sound great but yet all the dogs in town start howling - so I don't know!:D :rofl:

I recorded this with Nikon coolpix S9 camera so probably not the best quality for audio but, eh, got the job done.

I placed the camera right on the bullbar of the ML430 (right about the Xs rear bumper height) and the ML was about 5feet away. I did not floor it. I tried to wait for the idle to go down after startup but didnt want the video to be too long so I revved it with minimal wait.

Not quite as deep as stock but fine for me. :thumbup:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yl_gkL5w8mg

I'd imagine standing outside the vehicle might sound a little better but with the window open, there wasn't really a noticeable difference. I think once I get an open air intake and it chipped it will add a little more sound to it. I do know that I must have lost about 50-60lbs on that piece they cut off which was nice. I'll borrow my bosses HD video camera once this cold snap has passed and do some recording in a parking lot.

As for what I paid, I paid $300 CDN with tax for everything.

I just listened to that sound clip and now I'm definitely going to have to record something sooner because I don't think mine sounds that loud. I'll get to work on a sound clip tomorrow.

i have the eisenmann race mufflers on my 4.8. it is the best money i have ever spent - sounds insane.

Is that what you call "Film Noir"?

Yours is a 4.8? Sounds louder than mine although I have not heard mine from other than the drivers seat.

Hahaha ... It wasn't done on purpose. I even had a towel over the license plate - guess I didn't need that, huh? :rofl:

I think it's the proximity of the camera that made it sound like that. I probably should record it further away. You should have somebody start your car while you're back there. :D

I will tell you that its pretty accurate. I love it when sometimes at starup the revs don't drop right away - stays revved about 1/2 a second longer! :thumbup:

Why don't you guys with the 4.8 and x-pipe chime in ... Is my clip pretty close to what you guys get?

I can imagine it would. That must have been a few bucks. Do you have some good closeup of them on?

Have any of you guys added the air intake and ECU upgrade? I'm curious to know if there is a felt difference in HP or sound for that matter. I did a ram air intake with hood scoop and air box in my Integra GSR and I don't get the sucking of air sound at all. All I hear is the engine reving which is awesome. Hopefully the same will come with the X5.

Something else I notice also with the ECU upgrade which was on my M3 was that even after installing my Supersprint exhaust and ram air intake, my performance numbers hardly changed until I chipped it and then they jumped huge.

The difference in sound on the 3.0 was very slight when adding the x pipe. But change out those stock mufflers too and man will it roar!

oh and congrats on the x pipe gofast guy!

Thanks man, I've got emails out on quotes to get the other upgrades so we'll see how long I have to wait.

Goodluck :thumbup:

So is the AFE CAI next?

I was talking with one of the exhaust guys and he said, it would totally cheapen the vehicle and I guess I'd have to agree with him on that one. I think my money is better spent buying better placed upgrades into the vehicle in other places.
I had a crazy dream last night I think I'm going to pursue to do with making a short video about the utilitarian capabilities of my X5. I think I'm going to ask for some help with this project from a friend of mine. Right now, I've got a lot of ideas as to what I want to see in the short film so I've got to get them down on paper and then work at filming/editing and some photoshopping from there. I'll keep you guys posted as pics come up but this is going to take some time.

:bustingup Hmm, utilitarian capabilities of the X5. Isn't that an oxymoron? I can't haul wood pellets in mine, I don't want to haul bags of mulch or bales of straw or bags of topsoil cause I don't want to get it dirty inside. I drive my old truck when it's snowing cause I'm afraid the door handles will freeze up on the X5...and so on.

The X5 is a whole lot of sport, very little utility. That being said, I still love it anyway.

go for the sport magnaflow mufflers..they sound great

lol the mods been complete already.. finished it up last week. I ended up going with magnaflow 4' round mufflers with 2.25'' custom piping. The sound clips can be heard on the you tube clips located on my first post in this thread. thanks though :thumbup:

here is one at start up for you guys. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcbJdUjL100

you can notice the right tip is crooked. I just got the X back from the body shop today for some hit and run damage, now time to get those tips fixed up.

So now that you've done the exhaust, what's next for the X5?

That sounds great! :thumbup:

I need to get a lady in the seat next to me :bustingup lol!


I think I might be taking a breather for a bit. I have been considering the BSW stealth sub upgrade. Also I need either an intravee or a new cd changer as my cd changer is dying. 4.6 kit would be nice too.. but I'm not trying to spend near $1000 on that now.

Posted clip of my new X-pipe setup here:

http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...tml#post577299

Awesome! unlike the 3.0 (before removing the stock exhaust), you can really notice the x pipe.

OK, I've noticed many saying the X pipe doesn't change the sound of the 3.0, but does it increase performance? What is the benefit? If I wanted a little more power out of my 3.0 without changing the sound too much would the x pip help or should I do a different mod?

3.0 X-pipe w/ X-pipe........
 

......I just had a X-pipe installed on my '01 3.0 and they're right, you're not going to hear much difference, but if you really listen, you'll notice a nice little purr (both at idle and throttle) that wasn't there before the install. But even more significantly, you'll notice the new found 'pep' when you give it the gas - it most definitely has more kick!! You'll be able to throw your passengers to the backs of their seats!!

I also installed a (home-made version) CAI a couple of weeks ago. That new cone-shaped air filter seems to have added a noticeable boost to the 'acceleration' mode.

After these 2 mods, you've got some (quite) noticeable increase 'ooomph'.

If you want more sound, all that's left is to cut a deal with mtX5 for a set of his DynaFlow exhausts........;)

Does it make any difference if the X-pipe is installed as it is in post # 103 or further back (to the rear), just behind the hold-down rod/hanger and just before the flange connectors?

What size x pipe did you put on? Was it the MagnaFlow?

Hey G....I wonder who made that CAI for you????:D

It was the 2.25" (the smallest diameter) MagnaFlow. They had to add reducer piping.

A X5 World member around here made my CAI box himself!! :thumbup: :D :D I'll be cruising back down to his place so that he can show me how to install the Angel Eye mod, (my last mod?), too! ;)

Hey mtX5, I got back from Poland a while ago, and then moved into my new house. I read all the way through this thread and TY for all the youtube posts and pics. Truly inspiring. . . BTW my wife hates you LMAO! B-Day is coming soon and she never lets me down. She has asked for a parts list and over all price (i know i saw it spead out over the many pages, but just so it is all together). Do you mind?

And second question, say I do everything that you have done (love that sound) except the X pipe, is that a deal breaker for the entire system? What exactly would I be missing out on? Thanks in advance man!!!:D

Did you sold you exhaust ? If not how much do you ask for ?

glad to be of some inspiration :thumbup:

as for the parts list, basically you will need two round magnaflow mufflers, two tips of your choice (i might be selling my current magnaflow tips since i am putting 4.6 tips on) and 2.25 inch piping (not sure how much). parts should be around $475. I was charged $319 in labor. i don't know if these are the correct part numbers but this is on the invoice:
magnaflow tips - part # 35167 $105 each (i can sell you mine if you like them)
4" round muffler magnaflow- part#10415 $102.42 each
exhaust tubing 2 1/4" /inch - .36 cent x 168 used = $60.48

i bought the x pipe seperatly off eBay.. not sure how it would sound without it. if you want you can go with this setup, and if need be its easy to put in the x pipe..

goodluck and let me know if you need anything else

So MTX5, I see it's been quite a few months living with your Magnaflow exhaust on your 5 speed X5. I too have a silver 5 speed X5 and I'm wondering what life is like with it the exhaust.

I've been apprehensive about possible droning. I've had concerns about it being TOO loud. And I have the dreaded quart every 800 miles oil consumption.

I was wondering what have been the long term benefits and detriments.

haha life is great with it. no regrets at all. it is the sound i was looking for in and out of cabin. as i stated before, it is not quiet in-cabin, nor did i want it to be. i have no issues with oil consumption (just the normal amount i had before the exhaust system). the only thing i have noticed is a bit of reduced MPG. cant say that the exhaust system is to blame.

so all in all, long term benefits are same as the ones that led me to get it. can't say anything negative came out of it.. except the occasional few people who may say your exhaust is too loud lol.

I would guess the reduced mpg comes from giving her more gas just to hear the exhaust. Thats what I would be doing. :D

haha it is mostly from that :nanana:

it really might be my driving, because when i drive 'fuel efficiently' it doesnt last more than like 30 min lol

Mmm... I dont think I'd care about the sound outside so much. But unlike yourself I only have 1 X to drive on a daily basis and I dont know if I can take the drone. Maybe if I dont do the X pipe it wont be as loud as yours.

If I could describe the perfect scenario for myself, I couldnt hear any discernable difference from stock with the windows up unless I'm really getting in it (like 4500k rpm and up).

A nice throaty bark is the "look" I'm going for.

honestly the x-pipe did very little in my opinion on a 3.0. you can really notice it on a 4.4 or 4.6/4.8 though.

but if you don't want the drone, and want it to fit that scenario, do not get the round mufflers! oval mufflers should supply you with the sound you are looking for. i went with the round mufflers because i wanted all that sound, even though its my daily driver (can't really explain why.. haha)

you have a 3.0 right?

Thats right! You DO have the round canister looking Magnaflows. Yeah I might get a deeper more subdued rumble/growl with the oval mufflers... Will look into it... But I think mod season is over right? Isnt it proportionally opposite timewise with the Christmas season? lol

yeah look into it. a custom system should be less than 900. i can imagine the oval ones costing less since you don't have to maneuver the piping to the muffler due to its awkward shape/length. if you keep your old piping it'll cost less too (i got new, larger ones).

and yeah.. mod season has definitely ended.. for me at least. thats it for a while. time to save some $$

mtX5,

Thanks for the wonderful post...this one has been goin' for a while!

So any more info/knowledge on the round vs oval Magnaflow mufflers effecting how load the exhaust system is? I'm also looking to pull the trigger on this mod and want some improvement in sound, more than the Remus but not full blown LOUD.

How did you select the particular Magnaflow model???

Thanks and happy motoring!:thumbup:

no prob buddy.

oval mufflers typically will not be as 'loud' as the round mufflers.

i selected mine after alot of research, and i found an awesome shop nearby, whose manager is experienced in making custom magnaflow systems. after i explained to him what i was looking for we narrowed it down and i placed the order. there was always the chance it wouldn't sound right, but it turned out exactly what i was looking for luckily. he custom made the piping and i added a magnaflow xpipe too.

you can hear it on the youtube clips on my first post in this thread. if you need additional clips i might have more on my computer.

check your PM for more info

Awesome thanks again!

I've heard the YouTube Clips about 10 times!!! Love it well done, and congrats on finding a good shop too. Not knowing for sure what the sound would be is a killer. Although I think at this point we've got a pretty good representation of all the big "name" companies and now your custom solution.

So you went with the round Magnaflows strictly for sound (max volume!) or was fitment a concern too?

I may look to the oval ones. Still being Magnaflow I'm sure they'll be loud enough and the wife won't kill me!
(don't tell anyone, the E53 is actually her daily driver!)

I'm in the M3 but we switch at least once a week and I can;t wait to get the new exhaust done!

Thanks again!

No to be a hater or anything like that but I dont like the oval/square tips, I definitely prefer the dual round tips " à la M5 "

No need to for you to self-brand yourself a hater dude. When they were discussing round versus oval, they were talking about the shape of the mufflers, not the exhaust tips.

You never know how people would react so it was like announcing my color so to speak. I should have specified, I dont like the round muffler but I like the round tips. Most round muffler I had a chance to hear have a raspy sound and would likely attract the trouper attention.

Hey DoubleA,

Certainly cool to voice your opinion my friend...that's what it's all about!

Also, I appreciate your input as I'm still trying to narrow down the mufflers I'll be using. Since I'm going for the "affordable" (sub-$1000) route, I'll be using a universal Magnaflow muffler like mtX5's and need to decide on the exact one. They offer about 100 different sizes and shapes so I'm just trying to get the best one with regard to sound AND fitment.

As for the tips, that's totoally personal and we'll all choose what we like! Magnaflow actually has about 10 different shapes of double-walled tips they look great!

Anyway, thanks for the input!

Stainless steel custom made.
 

I had my stainless steel exhaust custom made it cost me £300 and they guy took 5 hrs to make it. the sound is so nice and the look is just what I wanted.

Lennon

Very cool...any pics?

In trying to decide which (budget) muffler to put on our 3.0 I'm having a hard time, given the space constraints on the X5. It looks like the "body" of the 3.0 mufflers are only 12 inches long. Most of the magnaflow universal mufflers are 14 inches and will be a tight fit.

I'm basically trying to emulate the wonderful job MTX5 did on his, with the fact that we know his results being the safegard against an insanely loud, droning custom exhaust. He used the 4'' round magnaflows and I'm concerned they will be too loud, but the oval ones will not fit.

Anyway, any pics of the exhaust from the underside of the car would be great!

Mmmm... I havent looked under there lately but surely the stock muffler is longer than the length of my foot, no?

Well, we have a 2006 3.0 and I got down there with the tape measure...granted there was a foot of snow on the ground and I wasn;t too meticulous but it measured 12 inches for the "body" of the muffler, not including the pipes heading forward to the motor or the tips, just the body of the muffler.

Thus my concern when trying to fit an (oval) universal muffler. MTX5 used the 4'' round magnaflows on his and fit but needed some interesting angular welds to get the muffler to fit the pipes and tips.

Fortunately his came out great and I'm hoping for the same.

Looking like mid to late January before my get on...business trip coming up next week. :(

Oh ok. My finances will dictate when i get mine...

HA! Me too! Not too uncommon I'm learning....

FYI I'm doing mine, two Magnaflow mufflers like MTX5 did, with your choice of two "double walled" SS tips installed for around $500.

Not too shabby and all I can do right now for the X. Putting $1600 Supersprint/Remus/Rogue pipes on a 3 liter X5 just doesn;t make sense to me. For those who have, I'm envious, and I'm sure it's great.

I'll keep the $1500 Rogue Engineering exhaust on the M3 and go simple on the "truck". :thumbup:

I put Eisenmann Race mufflers on my 4.8 Best thing I ever did on this truck....I get compliments every time I valet my car, like clockwork lol

Awesome. I'm sure they are great and wish i could swing it for ours as well...not to mention that nearly 5 liter V8 you have!!!

I'm actually doing pipes on the X do to the fact that I'm so in love with the Rogue exhaust on my E46. A bit different on the X5 but for me the sound alone is well worth it. :D

If anyone has pictures from the aftermarket exhaust on the X while on a lift please post them!

Thanks and happy holidays all!

Pics
 

Morning from the Uk...

I am have new drilled and grooved discs fitted tomorrow so I will take some pics of the exhaust while its up on the ramp..

Lennon

JCAP - while listening to MTX5's clips on Youtube (which by the way sounds great and now has become my next mod after fixing my heated seat and deteriorated seat cushion), I watched another video that is labeled as "Magnaflow on X5 3.0i" and they used oval mufflers - he videoed up under the vehicle - might want to check that out.

Thanks Lennon, that would be great! pics please!!!

JCAP - while listening to MTX5's clips on Youtube (which by the way sounds great and now has become my next mod after fixing my heated seat and deteriorated seat cushion), I watched another video that is labeled as "Magnaflow on X5 3.0i" and they used oval mufflers - he videoed up under the vehicle - might want to check that out.

Excellent! I'll have to check that out and if you could shoot us a link that would be great! I searched with "Magnaflow on X5 3.0i" on youtube and only see the ones from MTX5 (which are great, but I'd love to hear others using magnaflow).

Please post the link if you can, thanks!
__________________

Exhaust pics
 

Please see attached the exhaust I had fitted, they are usually clean and shiney but we have snow here in the uk. Also attached the discs I have just had fitted.

Lennon

Thanks Lennon, great pics!

I see you went with round mufflers too like those on MTX5's that I'm trying to replicate.

They look great, nice choice of tips and the welds even look good. What kind of mufflers are they?

Anyway, thanks again and Happy New Year!

- JC

Hi Jc

The tips are tig welded on when the guy gets to the rear of the car same as the rear box's, all the bending is done on a manual bender from straight stainless, the tips I picked them out of a choice of many different styles that they had in stock.

Thanks and a happy new year to you, Lennon

I've been reading E46Fanatics and read about what they were doing on their 3 series with the same engine as the 3.0i. One user was saying that removing the resonators would change the sound, while removing the muffler would change the volume. A straight muffler delete would give the same exhaust note as stock, but louder and without the rasp of removing the resonators.

Lennon, thanks for all the insight, your systems looks great. Any sound clips online....youtube or anything? Thanks again my friend!

MINIz...good tips too. I've heard the same so your comments are good confirmation.

For now my plan is to keep the resonator and not use an X-Pipe and just do the Universal Mufflers from Magnaflow. I'm not looking for too much rasp just a nice tone to the exhaust and some improved looks from the stock 3.0 tips. We have an E46 M3 that is the rasp-master and I have that "fixed" with the Rogue Engineering pipes. The rasp was great for a year or two but the RE Exhaust on the car is AWESOME. It's so good it's got me modding the exhaust on the X to get a bit of noise from her as well!!!

Thanks again guys I'm looking late-January to have the on the X5 and will report back then.

Happy New Year all!!!

my exhaust is for sale guys, if anyone wants it please check for sale section or PM me!!

Dude!

You are selling yours?!?!? I have laid out my Magnaflow exhaust to be just as your is! Thanks for all your help in your many posts on this topic.

Why are you selling? Is it at all to do with the volume (too loud?) or drone of the mufflers?

Our X is in gettting the 4.8 kit on right now and the pipes will come in a few weeks. I'm going to buy them new as they are pretty cheap but again, thanks for posting.

So, why u selling?!?

Which exhaust? The old factory or the new Magnaflow? And why are you selling the X too?

jcapx5 glad you could use my info lol. but ya nothing is wrong with the exhaust, i'm selling the x5..so i'm parting it out. if i was keeping the X i would never sell it!

ldiggs im selling the magnaflow one, gonna put stock back on when i sell the X. i am selling the X because i am getting a 335i M sports package. we still have the e70 and two other suvs..i won't lie i love the e53 the most but its getting old.. and maintenance adds up..

Sounds good and thanks again for posting on the pipes. How was the cabin exhaust drone a typical crusing speeds? Hope to have mine on in a month or so.

Best of luck with your 335...that car freakin' rocks, I just gave back a loaner that I put several hundred miles on. Coming from my E46 M3 is quite a bit different, needs suspension, but pulls like a champ. Chip it and you'll walk all over E46 M3's in a red-light-showdown (just watch out at the track)!

You will miss the E53. I suppose that beautiful E70 will have to do! :D

resurrecting this thread, going with this same setup but using vibrant resonated mufflers on my 3.0i, getting the work done tomorrow along with quad tips 3.5'

hoping it will sound similiar to the magnaflow setup you had in your old X