2017 Fiat 500X Turbo Downpipes

Turbo Downpipes

Unlike naturally aspirated vehicles, where the exhaust manifold or header dumps directly into a collector and through the exhaust system, turbocharged applications require a few additional components. In a turbocharged vehicle, the turbo’s exhaust housing sits between the exhaust manifold and exhaust piping. Rather than utilizing a traditional 2-bolt flange at the exhaust manifold connected to the exhaust mid-pipe, turbochargers feature a large flange that connects the turbo to the manifold and a V-band clamp that affixes the turbo exhaust outlet to the exhaust system. However, we’re still missing an intermediary piece to the puzzle. 

Turbo Downpipes connect the exhaust housing of the turbocharger to the remainder of the exhaust system, featuring a V-band connector at one end and a standard slip fitting or flange at the other. This pipe allows hot, high-velocity exhaust gasses to escape the cylinder head(s). Like naturally aspirated vehicles, the more efficiently exhaust flows out of a turbocharged engine, the greater the volume of air it can inhale. As we all know, more air equals more power! As a result, we recommend installing an aftermarket, high-flow Turbo Downpipe to improve exhaust flow and, thus, performance! Fortunately, we offer several aftermarket Turbo Downpipes, lowering EGTs, improving exhaust flow, and bolstering efficiency. 

To further improve exhaust flow, check out our complete selection of exhaust systems and components!

Types of Turbo Downpipes

Turbo Downpipes come in several configurations, offering different levels of performance, corrosion resistance, and more.

Catted vs. Catless

Downpipes come in catted and catless configurations, referring to the presence of a catalytic converter, or lack thereof. Catalytic converters are essential emissions components, igniting unburnt fuel and transforming harmful combustion byproducts into less dangerous compounds. For a better look at the science, check out our article on Theft-Proofing Your Catalytic Converter. 

In most cases, turbocharged vehicles ship from the factory with catted downpipes. In these instances, installing a catless downpipe in their place is illegal, even though catless downpipes are inexpensive and offer better performance by reducing restrictions. Regardless, if your vehicle comes with a catted downpipe, ensure that your high-performance replacement does too!

Material

Another variance you'll find across Turbo Downpipes is construction, with the two most popular alloys being stainless steel and aluminized steel. Stainless steel is highly corrosion-resistant due to the alloy's high chromium content, preventing rust and oxidation regardless of the climate. Alternatively, aluminized steel is nothing more than carbon steel that’s hot-dipped in molten aluminum. Aluminized steel offers moderate corrosion resistance, lasting up to 10 years in temperate climates. 

Most downpipes are mandrel-bent, referring to the product’s manufacturing process. Mandrel-bent piping offers smoother transitions without kinks, ensuring smooth, efficient exhaust flow.