Exhaust upgrade

Topic: Exhaust upgrade (Read 978 times) previous topic - next topic

Exhaust upgrade

February 09, 2021, 10:32:52 AM

Hi all,

My current mish-mash exhaust for GTI 8V (1989) appears to be coming to the end of its serviceable life.

Has anyone got positive/negative experiences of complete (manifold to back box) upgrades or should I stick to OEM components if I can afford same? More zip would be welcome but efficiency is what I am really looking for.

Re: Exhaust upgrade

Reply #1 – February 09, 2021, 08:55:06 PM

Stick with the OEM downpipe and imho the best around is the trackslag systems. Ill be getting one on mine as they have gone to the effort of make a twin slanty style tips to match the OEM style just with bigger bore

Re: Exhaust upgrade

Reply #2 – February 10, 2021, 08:54:22 AM

Trackslag

Re: Exhaust upgrade

Reply #3 – February 10, 2021, 10:11:01 AM

Trackslag all day long.
They have put so much effort into designing a genuinely excellent system specifically for the mk2.
Not only does it flow brilliantly, they've done things like flange the rear box, making tailpipe alignment MUCH easier.
Another nice touch is the back box is short enough that is doesn't block access to the rear shock bolt.
Meaning you can drop the suspension, or fit an anti roll bar without having to get the box out the way.

Re: Exhaust upgrade

Reply #4 – February 10, 2021, 04:24:23 PM

Hi guys,

Thanks for resounding 'Trackslag' feedback. Just heard the Mk2 soundtrack with their 2.25" (performance) system fitted, just what I'm looking for.

Would you recommend leaving OEM cast manifold along with front pipe in situ' then? Thinking a 4 into 1 s/s unit (say Milltek) would enhance engine gas flow and compliment larger bore of said Trackslag system?

In any event, I assume any competent exhaust fitter will be able to manufacture a conversion pipe to enable different bore specs to be married up?

Re: Exhaust upgrade

Reply #5 – February 11, 2021, 10:41:49 AM

Just be aware, swapping the exhaust manifold on an 8v is a complete pain in the ass!
Everything is in the way and if you shear a bolt, that's the head coming off to drill and tap it!

Personally, if it's not rotten, I'd stick with the standard manifold and down pipe and then bolt the Trackslag on to that.
Pretty sure they actually do a reducer to mount the standard pipe to the new system too.

Re: Exhaust upgrade

Reply #6 – February 12, 2021, 07:54:43 PM

Quote from: marcosgt on February 10, 2021, 04:24:23 PM

Hi guys,

Thanks for resounding 'Trackslag' feedback. Just heard the Mk2 soundtrack with their 2.25" (performance) system fitted, just what I'm looking for.

Would you recommend leaving OEM cast manifold along with front pipe in situ' then? Thinking a 4 into 1 s/s unit (say Milltek) would enhance engine gas flow and compliment larger bore of said Trackslag system?

In any event, I assume any competent exhaust fitter will be able to manufacture a conversion pipe to enable different bore specs to be married up?

Personally a shiny four branch is not worth the money. Itll be like getting a 500 quid remap and gaining 3bhp.

If the original 4-2-1 set up is ok then leave it be, and like said they are a nightmare to fit.

Re: Exhaust upgrade

Reply #7 – February 12, 2021, 11:51:56 PM

Ah the joys of removing the 8v manifold. Brings back memories of hugging the engine tight so I could graze my knuckles undoing the exhaust to manifold joint with various sockets/spanners...ENJOY!
That was just to fix the head gasket.

Re: Exhaust upgrade

Reply #8 – March 26, 2021, 11:09:59 AM

Just learnt that VW no longer source OEM exhaust parts for Mk2 GTis, so stainless upgrade on the cards in April. Assume the OE front down pipe is made of sterner stuff or should I replace as well? VW Heritage have one in stock @ £120.