How many of you?

[Gonzobard]

That’s an excellent question, I don’t know. Certainly at least cat back, I assume I will need to measure the diameter of the down pipe to see whether it is 2.5” or 3”?
I assume that the mods can be undertaken in stages? Looks like an intake kit and RIP could be done initially, perhaps then a larger inter cooler and finally a change to Motec 4.4 and a map?

[s1monc]

I have the SNABB intake pipe on the Gul, forgot about that, it’s a good mod but fit wasn’t great. A lot of mucking about to get it fitting right.

If you’re changing the downpipe, you may want to change to an angled exhaust housing at the same time.

[Gonzobard]

I do currently have a straight turbo exhaust flange. What are the benefits of an angled flange? My down pipe (after the flexible) looks to be 2.5 inch - is that likely to be stock?

[acshortt5]

The genuine Volvo angled flange downpipes are 3 inch initially going down to 2.5 inch after the cat which means you don't need to change the remainder of the exhaust system.

[Gonzobard]

OK, thanks. Looks like my ‘performance’ stainless exhaust is cat back only, so bigger down pipe looks like one of the first mods I need.

[Gonzobard]

Is the angled turbo exhaust required just to allow for an OEM down pipe or are there other performance benefits associated with it?

[Mkengineering]

Originally Posted by Gonzobard

Is the angled turbo exhaust required just to allow for an OEM down pipe or are there other performance benefits associated with it?

The main benefit is the flow rate and being slightly bigger. Also when upgrading to a bigger turbo you will find they are all mated to a angled flange.

When I upgrade my turbo to the 18g I'll have to go to angle flange, at the same time install my japifold manifold.

[Mkengineering]

Originally Posted by Gonzobard

I do currently have a straight turbo exhaust flange. What are the benefits of an angled flange? My down pipe (after the flexible) looks to be 2.5 inch - is that likely to be stock?

Also your downpipe is 2.25 I believe. When you remove it you'll see how restrictive it is.

[Gonzobard]

So if I need a bigger downpipe what do I do about the cat that I have fitted? I think most remove the cat? Does that become the restriction if it remains or are high-flow cats available? It sounds as though a 16t turbo will be big enough for my needs, so can I stick with a straight turbo exhaust flange and install a bigger downpipe onto it?

[Mkengineering]

Originally Posted by Gonzobard

So if I need a bigger downpipe what do I do about the cat that I have fitted? I think most remove the cat? Does that become the restriction if it remains or are high-flow cats available? It sounds as though a 16t turbo will be big enough for my needs, so can I stick with a straight turbo exhaust flange and install a bigger downpipe onto it?

You can either keep it or upgrade the cat or better go catless🙏🏾. For your application 16t will be enough. But I know a few guys have gone 19t and used then used the 15g housing.

But shemtek or Tim Williams will advise you. But what I found is; that key is the overall condition of your engine. I service my car every 3 to 6k using 10w60 oil.