
In the event you’re searching for an improve that actually transforms your BMW, you’re in the correct place.
At present, I can be reviewing the VRSF N55 Catless Downpipe.
Having put in and examined this downpipe alone BMW M135i, I’m excited to share my experiences!
Whether or not you wish to increase your automobile’s efficiency or simply need that aggressive exhaust notice, this downpipe may simply be the most effective worth mod you may add to your BMW.
Let’s get began!
Overview: VRSF N55 Catless Downpipe
Let’s begin with an outline of the VRSF N55 Catless Downpipe:
For individuals who is probably not acquainted, a downpipe is a part of your automobile’s exhaust system. It connects the turbocharger to the exhaust, and its design and building have a big impression in your automobile’s efficiency and sound.
This explicit downpipe is designed for N55 engines, present in numerous BMW fashions.
VRSF provides this downpipe in two variations: catless and catted.
The catless model, which I’ve personally examined, is all about maximizing efficiency. It’s fully open from the within:

With out the catalytic converter, exhaust gases stream freely, lowering again strain and permitting your turbo to spool up faster.
The result’s a noticeable bump in horsepower and responsiveness.
The catted model provides a extra balanced method. It has a 200-cell high-flow catalytic converter, which permits for vital efficiency enhancements whereas lowering emissions in comparison with the catless choice:

The high-flow catalytic converter ensures that exhaust gases are cleaner, but it’s designed to reduce the restriction of the OEM catalytic converter.
This implies you continue to get a notable enhance in horsepower and responsiveness, albeit barely lower than the catless model, however with out the potential authorized and environmental considerations.
Whereas the catted model will nonetheless enhance the exhaust notice, it gained’t be as aggressive because the catless model.
The VRSF N55 Downpipe is constructed from SS304 grade stainless-steel, which is a sort of metal recognized for its sturdiness, resistance to corrosion, and talent to face up to excessive temperatures.

The downpipe is made with mandrel-bent tubing, which creates easy bends and a constant diameter all through the pipe.
Clean stream equals much less turbulence, which interprets to higher efficiency.
Plus, the precision CNC machined flanges guarantee an ideal match, eliminating any fear about exhaust leaks.
Putting in the VRSF Downpipe on a BMW M135i
Putting in the VRSF downpipe is surprisingly easy, particularly in the event you’re accustomed to doing a little easy DIY jobs in your automobile.
In my expertise, you may count on it to take about an hour, though this will clearly differ primarily based in your expertise degree and work atmosphere.

Firstly, take away the underbody panels to entry the OEM downpipe.
As soon as uncovered, you’ll discover the downpipe is held in place by metallic clamps on both aspect, secured with nuts.
Over time, these can develop into fairly cussed because of warmth publicity. In the event that they’re resistant, a couple of persuasive faucets with a hammer can loosen them up.
Here’s a comparability of the OEM downpipe with catalytic converter and the catless VRSF downpipe:

Subsequent, flip your consideration to the O2 sensors. These elements should be transferred to your new VRSF downpipe.
With a 7/8″ (22 mm) wrench, you may detach the sensors. Deal with them with care, as they are often delicate.
Right here is how the VRSF downpipe ought to look earlier than the set up, with the O2 sensors and the metallic clamps:

With the OEM downpipe disconnected, the set up of your VRSF downpipe is the other of the removing course of.
Be sure that the metallic clamps encircle the V-band flanges snugly for a leak-free connection.
Right here is how the put in VRSF catless downpipe will look underneath your automobile:

8 Advantages of a VRSF Catless Downpipe
Nonetheless questioning why you must improve to a VRSF downpipe?
Right here is an outline of the advantages it provides:
- Elevated horsepower and torque. By eradicating the restriction of a conventional catalytic converter, the VRSF catless downpipe permits exhaust gases to stream extra freely, lowering again strain. This results in a greater turbo spool and a rise in each horsepower and torque. The automobile undoubtedly feels stronger after the catless downpipe set up. The OEM downpipe with catalytic converter is extremely restrictive and I undoubtedly consider when VRSF says that the downpipe provides an additional 20-25 horsepower with a tune.

- Louder exhaust sound. One other noticeable change after putting in the VRSF catless downpipe is the sound. The catless downpipe makes the exhaust sound a tad louder, nevertheless it’s not big in the event you go away the inventory exhaust put in. The principle distinction is that the exhaust sound turns into a bit extra raspy, and the pops and bangs are a bit bit louder.
- Sooner turbo spool. The lowered again strain additionally contributes to faster turbo spooling.
- Alternative between catless and catted downpipe. VRSF provides each catless and catted variations of their N55 downpipe. In the event you don’t want the catted downpipe for emission laws, I’d suggest selecting the catless downpipe for optimum sound and efficiency.
- “No Trouble” satisfaction assure. Buying a VRSF downpipe comes with peace of thoughts with the “No Trouble” satisfaction assure. This assurance features a promise of excellent fitment. In the event you encounter any points or aren’t totally happy with the fitment or efficiency, VRSF is devoted to resolving your considerations.
- Ceramic coating service. If you wish to enhance the efficiency of your VRSF downpipe even additional, VRSF provides an elective ceramic coating service. This coating, constructed from Cerakote Excessive Temperature Ceramic, is designed to face up to temperatures as much as 1800°F. It supplies a further layer of safety in opposition to warmth and corrosion. Moreover, it helps scale back warmth switch to the engine bay, probably reducing consumption air temperatures:

- Sturdiness and longevity. Comprised of high-quality SS304 grade stainless-steel, the VRSF catless downpipe is constructed to final. It’s immune to corrosion and may face up to excessive temperatures.
- Lifetime guarantee. VRSF believes of their downpipes a lot that they provide a lifetime guarantee!
Tip: In the event you like this overview, additionally examine my VRSF Intercooler review or VRSF Charge Pipe review!
FAQs about downpipes
Any extra questions on downpipes? Take a look at these FAQs!
What does a VRSF downpipe do?
A VRSF downpipe replaces the restrictive manufacturing facility downpipe in your BMW, permitting exhaust gases to stream extra freely. This helps scale back again strain, which may result in sooner turbo spooling, extra energy, and a extra aggressive exhaust sound.
Are all N55 downpipes the identical?
Sure, all F-series BMW fashions (1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-Sequence) with the N55 engine have the identical downpipe. Nevertheless, fashions produced as much as 07/13 have a 3.5″ V-band flange inlet on the turbocharger aspect. In the meantime, fashions produced after 07/13 have a 4.0″ V-band flange inlet on the turbocharger aspect.
How a lot horsepower does a downpipe add?
A VRSF downpipe can sometimes add round 20-25 horsepower when mixed with a correct tune.
Does a downpipe damage the turbo?
No, a downpipe doesn’t damage the turbo. The truth is, lowering the again strain helps the turbo function extra effectively. Simply ensure the downpipe is put in accurately.
Can I run catless downpipes and not using a tune?
You’ll be able to technically run catless downpipes and not using a tune. Nevertheless, after a while, you’re going to get a examine engine gentle in your dashboard. You will get this eliminated by visiting a tuner or doing it your self utilizing BM3 or MHD Tuning.
What are the disadvantages of a catless downpipe?
The principle drawback of a catless downpipe is that it will increase emissions, probably inflicting your automobile to fail emissions checks in areas with strict laws. It additionally produces a stronger exhaust odor because the catalytic converter is eliminated.
Does a catless downpipe make the turbo louder?
Sure, a catless downpipe makes the turbo noises extra pronounced. You’ll discover louder turbo spooling sounds and a extra distinct blow-off noise once you let off the gasoline.
Does a catless downpipe make the exhaust louder?
Completely, a catless downpipe sometimes makes the exhaust sound louder and extra aggressive. You’ll probably discover a rise in quantity and a deeper tone, together with extra pronounced pops and bangs in case your automobile is provided for that.
Conclusion
Alright, let’s wrap this up!
VRSF calls upgrading your BMW with a VRSF N55 Catless Downpipe the most effective bang-for-buck mod out there, and I agree. Particularly in the event you pair it with a tune!
The perks are clear: extra energy, faster turbo response, a beefier exhaust notice, and top-notch high quality that’s constructed to final.
Plus, VRSF ensures that you may be joyful together with your improve.
In case you have any additional questions, let me know within the feedback under!
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