People love the B58 engine because it can be tuned and performs well. One of the most popular mods to extract more power from the engine is an upgrade to a high-performance downpipe.
It’s the downpipe’s job to connect the engine to the exhaust system. Installing a downpipe has many parks, like enhancing exhaust flow and reducing back pressure. It allows the users to squeeze more power from the engine with a more aggressive exhaust note.
However, installing a bmw b58 downpipe is a complex process that requires expertise and experience. Without proper guidelines, there is a high chance of making a mess of your engine. So, here we are with a step-by-step guideline on installing the B58 downpipe to make things easier for you.
What are the Required Tools and Materials?
There is a list of tools you need to install a BMW B58 downpipe properly. Make sure you have the following tools for a smooth installation process.
- Socket wrench set, commonly 10 mm, 13 mm, and 15 mm for most of the bolts.
- Ratchet extensions to work with hard-to-reach bolts.
- Torque wrench to ensure bolts are tightened to manufacturer recommendations.
- Breaker bar for loosening nuts that are stuck or rusted.
- The pry bar will come in handy if the old downpipe gets stuck.
Other than these, you can also keep the following tools for convenience.
- Oxygen Sensor Wrench or Socket
- Penetrating Oil
- Exhaust Hanger Removal Tool
- Jack Stands or Ramps
- Creeper or Mat
The required materials are:
- New Downpipe
- New Gaskets
- Anti-Seize Compound
- Zip Ties or Clamps
How will you Prepare your Workshop?
Before you start, you need to prepare your workshop and the car for the installation process. Let’s start with preparing the vehicle.
- Cool down the engine.
- Lift up the car for easy access to parts.
- Take the negative wire off the battery to disconnect it.
Then, you must set up your workshop by ensuring proper lights, safety equipment, and organizing tools & materials. Check if the downpipe is damaged in the shipment or has any defects. Also, check that all the nuts, gaskets, and clamps are in good shape.
How to Remove the Stock Downpipe?
Here starts the real job of upgrading the downpipe. Follow the steps below to remove the stock downpipe properly.
1. Locate the Stock Downpipe
You can find the downpipe between the exhaust system and the turbocharger. Track the exhaust pipe to the turbocharger to identify the stock downpipe.
2. Disconnect the Oxygen Sensors
Disconnect the oxygen sensors from the stock downpipe. They are the upstream and downstream of the catalytic converter. Carefully unplug the wiring for each sensor. Remember their positions so that you can plug them in again properly.
3. Remove Exhaust Clamps and Hangers
You can loosen the clamps that hold the downpipe to the exhaust system with a socket wrench. Then, free the rubber hangers that hold the exhaust in place using a pry bar.
4. Unbolt the Downpipe from the Turbocharger
Carefully unbolt the downpipe from the turbo flange. You can keep the bolts to reuse them later. You may need the ratchet extensions to reach the bolts in tight spaces.
5. Extract The Stock Downpipe
Gently pull the downpipe from the mounting points. It may get stuck and you can use a pry bar in that case. Don’t apply too much force here, or you may damage other components.
Installing the New B58 Downpipe
After the stock downpipe is removed, it is time to install the high-performance downpipe in the car. These are –
1. Position the Downpipe
Position the downpipe carefully so that it perfectly aligns with the turbo flange and exhaust system. Make sure it clears all surrounding components without interference.
2. Attach the Downpipe with the Turbocharger
Make sure you use new turbo to downpipe seals on the turbo flange. Then, use the bolts that came with the downpipe to attach it to the turbo ring. You could also use the original bolts that came with it. Use a torque wrench to tighten them as the manufacturer recommends.
3. Connect the Downpipe to the Exhaust System
Again, use new gaskets while connecting the downpipe to the exhaust system. To keep the connection safe, use clamps or bolts. Tighten all the bolts evenly to avoid any leaks.
4. Reattach the Oxygen Sensors
Reinstall the upstream and downstream oxygen sensors to the new downpipe. You should be careful not to get an anti-seize substance on the sensor tips when you use it on the threads. Make sure that the sensors are put in the right way.
5. Secure and Inspect
Check the downpipe clearance and make sure it is not touching other components. Finally, attach the rubber hangers to stabilize the exhaust system.
Conclusion
Great job! The installation of your high-performance B58 downpipe is complete. After securing everything and rechecking for errors, it is time to hit the roads. You will be rewarded with enhanced horsepower, torque, and turbocharger performance from the upgrade. An aggressive and high exhaust note will be there as a bonus!