Bigserve134's S5 build and review

Just to clarify, JHM was working on headers for the S5, but those would most likely go from the exhaust port off the motor all the way to the catback, i.e. no “dp” or “test-pipe” anymore.

However, given the blower, headers would be great, but bang for your buck is probably better spent on just doing the “test-pipes” i.e. catless downpipes. That leaves your oem exhaust manifold in place, and replaces the DP from the manifold to the catback.

Just thought I’d clarify some for ya. But yea, clutch at dp’s at the same time is a great mod and cuts down on labor if they’re done separately.

The headers should be able to eliminate the need for test pipes. maddog sadi that already. I would think about getting the test pipes if they are available now. Knowing the past luck with the 4.2 and the pre cats. You might want to get those out of there ASAP

http://audidirectusa.com/parts/2008/Audi/S5/?siteid=218003&vehicleid=203860&section=EXHAUST%20SYSTEM

Ok, I understand, So part #1 (those cats) in the middle diagram is what comes off the manifold that needs to get the fuck out? Then the downpipes follow as part #15?

What kind of history do the B6/7s have with the precats? searching for cylinder wall scoring right now, im assuming that is what you meant

Thanks

Correct the cats #1 in the middle diagram need to go. Test pipes are probably the best bang for your buck as Maddog said.

I hate that companies call the pipes with resonators #15 “downpipes” because they are more like mid pipes. Also it confuses people that switch from the older cars because the downpipes on the older cars had the cats in them.

The older cars had two cats on each side for the V engines and the first cats were called precats then the main cats were further back. Unless you look at the B6 3.0s that had the precats and then the main cats right behind the precats. With the cats so close to the back of the engine that means that there is a huge heat source right behind the engine. No wonder both the 3.0s and B6/7 S4s have so many issues with valve stem seals failing and scored cylinder walls on the S4s.

I think 034 Motorsport has catless pipes for the B8s but I remember 91GL saying negative things about them like they are too small.

Yes contact jhm about there catless dps…that will be the best bet

Ask and you shall receive. I was looking for brake pad wear sensors for someone’s car but then I saw these: http://jhmotorsports.com/shop/catalog/exhaust-test-pipes-stainless-steel-25-jhm-for-b8-s5-42l-fsi-32v-p-1789.html

They are beautiful!

“product not found” either that’s one hell of an edit by JHM, or the linky no work.

The link works for me on both my phone and computer.

My bad, it had my last search setting recalled (products vaild for a B6/7 S4). Cleared that and it pulled up.

Pretty good price actually for those pipes since no one else offers em, obviously great quality, and recessed O2 bungs for catless.

Thanks for clarifying Jbones! I see why my AWE downpipes are really not downpipes now. Although when I ordered them I opted for the non-res for less restriction?

A few months ago Jake actually contacted me about the test pipes seeing if I wanted in on the first batch! We spoke about emissions and that I would likely not pass them once I swapped them in. That is why I didn’t grab them then. I suppose if these are an easy swap without have to drop the engine or trans I could just juggle them when emission time comes around.

They are… and expensive for hollow pipes, but one must pay to play. Also since JHM are first to market they can skim

Most of the time the resonators are just for sound and by sound I mean drone.

The B6/7 S4 downpipes are $1,200 for probably twice as much or more tubing, plus flex joints, and hardware/gasket for the middle connecting flanges. But with the midpipes the B8s are probably paying more in the end.

I hate that fucking drone! I throw it in neutral or keep it above 3k rpms otherwise its a disaster

I’d say they’re pretty well priced. Having the O2 sensor recessed saves you another $50-$100 bucks form buying O2 spacers. And you’ve got madrel bends in 2.5" piping with some fairly complex bends (well more so precise bends since you don’t have flex pipes).

The first DP’s that came to the B6/7 market were twice that if I recall. As time goes on, someone will copy them with slightly less quality and offer for a coup0le hundred bucks less.

But either way, you’ll always be able to sell these for a good chunk back later on if you ever need to.

Also, I’d imagine with proper tune, you’d get around emissions. The visual will never catch these with how recessed the catalytic converter is in stock location. So as long as you’re not throwing a code, you should be good.

I see, good point on the resell value. I think I will keep the S5 indefinitely and just add to my garage in the future; I love this car too much!

I wonder if JHM can special order/create these in 2.75" sizing.

Jake any idea?

I think you mean rasp. Resonators may cause you more drone believe it or not.

very true…they would eliminate rasp but would make it miserable in the cabin.

anyways, i loved the rasp of my old car. the popping and burbling was intoxicating.

Bigserve…car looks great. I love the satin red!

Definitely meant drone, resonance inside the car that is like a hum! Even my center light console with the sun glass holder vibrates and shakes. Bluetooth phone calls piss people off so much that certain family refuse to talk while im in my car.

I wouldn’t mind rasp but it only seems to happen when the car is cold, during the first few minutes of drving

If my non-res really has less drone than the res then im glad, because I would have like gone back to stock if the drone would have been even worse!

Thanks 91gl! Are you back in the Audi scene?

Very nice post Big. I’ve been thinking more and more about replacing the S4 with an S5. I’d love to see the car in person one of these days. And as we’ve talked about before, it would be fun to do some pulls and see NA vs SC at Utah altitude.

I also have FI exhaust and the JHM stage IV clutch and FW. You could take a drive in my car and see first hand the sound and lack of chatter.

Hopefully JHM puts a supercharger on their in house S5 soon. That would be cool.

Thanks! Definitely, I would like to do some pulls since the RMR is closed for the winter. Do you have any test results for you current set up? I am still very busy, however, studying for boards and job hunting right now so Im more flexible to meet up. Shoot me a text when you have some time

Im sure it is in the works :slight_smile: