Exhaust downpipe advice needed

[mrssumner]

Hi all

I have a standard S1 with standard mild steel manifold onto a mild steel downpipe with flexi bit, standard cat, then stainless "sports" exhaust (don't know what type, it was on the car when I bought it).

My downpipe is blowing a bit around the flexi, so I'm wondering whether to upgrade to a 4-2-1 manifold, with associated shorter flexi pipe.

Is it worth the money? What sort of power increase would I get and would there be any weight loss or increase?

I would be looking at replacing the mild steel downpipe with SS anyway.

Thanks

[S Works]

Info from the SELOC Techwiki notes:

"Much more low down torque, gives the car a whole new set of driving characteristics. Most notably when pulling away at lower speeds and gives a much better range for changing up and down. Much improved engine note - much 'cleaner', less boom and noise. Additionally, when slowing at speed the momentum is maintained much longer when throttling back, the engine note changes gentle and progressively. Haven't had the chance to experience differences at top end of the rev range. No difference in MPG / oil usage noted at this time"

http://wiki.seloc.org/a/Piper_S2_4-2-1_Manifold_Fi...

There's also an interesting thread on the benefits of 4-2-1's here http://forums.seloc.org/viewthread.php?tid=136395

[mrssumner]

Thanks, S Works.

Found some more info on here when searching "S1 manifold" as well. Seems it's not worth the money unless you need to replace... but then I do need to replace one part!

[S Works]

I think if you're intending to up the power of the car in the future, then it's worth doing. Mine currently has one and the torque is superb from very low revs.

[mrssumner]

Which 4-2-1 do you have? Bell and Colvill seem to be coming out cheapest (£353 + VAT with link pipe), then Piper, then Janspeed, with Larini being most expensive (£416 + VAT). I have an enquiry with 2bular - not heard anything yet.

Also, are they a bugger to fit, or will my local (non-stealer) garage be able to do it without ripping through the heatshield?

Thanks

[S Works]

No idea which is the better, have a search on SELOC or ask on there - one of the more technically minded folks will advise. As for fitting, I'd get your nearest Lotus indie to do it. Where are you located?

[mrssumner]

Sunny Wigan. Usually take the car to B&C for servicing... but it's a long way to go with a blowing exhaust! There is a local garage here I trust for wheel bearings etc, but just wondered if it was a tricky job?

[m11tey]

mrssummer you have a Lotus Dealership at:

Christopher Neil Limited
Manchester Road
Northwich
Cheshire
CW9 7NA
Phone:[phone]

Indie most of us in the north west use is:

Phoenix Motorsports
Unit 7, Duckworth St, Church, Accrington, Lancashire BB5 4LQ
Tel: [phone]

Just fyi if it helps...

[mrssumner]

Thanks Mark. I'm aware of CN, but didn't know about the Accrington guys. Will keep them in mind if it's a tricky job.

[S Works]

Phoenix are well recommended on SELOC, as I believe are Track V Road who are up your way. Driving to B&C to get it serviced is madness!

[mrssumner]

S Works said:

Phoenix are well recommended on SELOC, as I believe are Track V Road who are up your way. Driving to B&C to get it serviced is madness!

But I kinda like driving...! Seriously, I used to have a reason for being in that area... if you know what I mean ;-)