I had my local shop install my PPE Downpipes today. The cost to install was $280. My Flex mileage was approx. 57,000.
They fit really tight, but clear everything. The biggest issue was all 6 of the nuts on the turbo flanges had to be heated to get them loose. The rears were the hardest because they are not as accessible. the good news was all 4 of the sensor bungs came out easily.
The other issue was the bung for the lambda sensor above the cat on the rear PPE pipe was not centered, so my installer had to grind it out and then re-tap it so the sensor bung would seal properly.
He had to remove the rear heat shield to install the pipe, but was able to re-install the shield afterwards. That also was time consuming.
While I'm pretty handy, there was no way I could have done this at home, and likely not if I had access to a lift, simply because of the difficulty in removing the stock pipes.
I can tell the difference in performance with the stock tune still installed. The turbos seem to be slightly more noticeable, but the overall exhaust sound is not much different than before. Of course I have Magnaflow mufflers on the rear.
I did not install my x-pipe midpipe that deletes the 3rd cat and mid-muffler as I wanted to see how much difference the PPE pipes made by themselves.
I plan to log as stock, then do logging with various tunes. Then I will add my NESHO x-pipe which has been designed to easily bolt in and out.
Great notes, EBB! Looking forward to updates on how these downpipes work 4 u with the tunes & xpipe :biggrin:
Great write up Bob, looking forward to the logs.
:)
One note: A couple of long extensions on a 3/8" drive socket and the rear DP nuts are easily accessible!