Worth it to go aftermarket downpipes on K04 build?

[Spunky424]

should i invest in aftermarket downpipes or just do piggies?

Thanks

[4rings2turbos]

A lot of B5 guys do piggies and they work. As you can imagine they don't flow as well as 3".

You're probably asking because you're on a budget, it which case it's fine to start with piggies since they're free and upgrade later and update the tune. But ONLY if you have a 6-speed. You won't want to try to remove the downpipes with the engine in on a tip.

(I'm sure you're manual trans but want to cover the bases.)

[Spunky424]

A lot of B5 guys do piggies and they work. As you can imagine they don't flow as well as 3".

You're probably asking because you're on a budget, it which case it's fine to start with piggies since they're free and upgrade later and update the tune. But ONLY if you have a 6-speed. You won't want to try to remove the downpipes with the engine in on a tip.

(I'm sure you're manual trans but want to cover the bases.)

this is for a 6mt but its not really the money but more so a time constraint. i've got the engine out now with the downpipes off and was thinking of removing the precats but then realized i'd need to get a new flex section welded on both the downpipes since they are leaking. with that cost and time and effort of doing it all, compared to buying a set of XS-power ones on ebay for 250. just wondering if theres any real power difference?

[forcefed7]

I'd go to the catless 3" downpipes just for the lower EGTs / heat dissipation you'd achieve. K04s are an investment IMO, and I'd if I had a chance at lowering underhood temps and extend longevity of them, i'd do it in a heart beat.

[Kaane]

I would always install downpipes if you have the motor our, it is just not worth the hassle later and it will keep your turbos much happier from the reduced back pressure.

[NuGGet_PuFFer]

I'd go to the catless 3" downpipes just for the lower EGTs / heat dissipation you'd achieve. K04s are an investment IMO, and I'd if I had a chance at lowering underhood temps and extend longevity of them, i'd do it in a heart beat.

I would always install downpipes if you have the motor our, it is just not worth the hassle later and it will keep your turbos much happier from the reduced back pressure.

Agreed.