R53 Cooper S JCW exhaust

[Rob Knox]

I've just bought a 2006 JCW 55k with a JCW exhaust how can I make is sound better ?
I used to own a Clio 182 & can honestly say the Mini is miles behind in performance.
It just doesn't have the punch the Clio does.
Do they do a de-cat or can I remove the front section of the exhaust?
No back pressure pop in. Could this be a by pass valve sticking.
Your thoughts..

[sad61t]

If you don't like it then can you take it back?

The lack of sound from the exhaust doesn't necessarily mean that's what is causing the lack of power. Think of all those ghastly 50cc mopeds that have had a screwdriver put through the silencer is the mistaken belief it makes them faster. (It doesn't, just more annoying.)

The head may be coked up - the 2006 turbos (Cooper S & JCW) are well known for this and it robs a lot of power.

Partially block filters (fuel & air), fouled plugs, etc. should all be checked.

Try a rolling road - if it really is still creating 220 bhp and you don't like it, then you can be back at the Renault dealers with a clear conscience for the man maths on a 265 Trophy.

[Rob Knox]

The cat round the manifold has just cracked so blowing badly.
Do I replace it with a different manifold the car has never sounds very loud! I'm 46 so no boy racer!!
What are your views?

[S3_Graham]

My R53 has a 'one ball' mod carried out to a JCW system. Sounds pretty good. Not too loud either, as for performance. Get a new pulley....

[MaxA]

for noise (and a bit of power), you need a new longer manifold and sports cat to go with your JCW catback.