Powerflow...what diameter and any good?

[steve0]

My car has a full Powerflow stainless steel exhaust system fitted; from Cat back. I have read numerous bad reports and experiences regarding Powerflow systems on various websites over the years, and so do not really trust them. Therefore, I would never actually fork out the money and go and buy one for my car. However, one is already fitted to the Cupra I have just purchased.

I am planning on going for a full KO3s setup in the new year, and am wondering if the Powerflow system currently fitted, will be adequate for the setup?? Obviously, I will need a Downpipe Race Cat; but would it be advised I bin the Powerflow off, and go for a system from the likes of Miltek/Blueflame/Supersprint?? Or should the Powerflow be alright? What diameter pipe will the Powerflow be?? I have the warranty details for it, and have looked through all my reciept's; but cannot seem to find a diameter of the system?

Also, just for reference, what diameter pipe is best for the system and downpipe/race cat when using a KO3s??

Many thanks

 

[Robbie C]

In very general terms bigger is better when it comes to exhaust diameters on turbo cars. I believe the likes of Milltek and Bluefame run 2.5" after the cat; with blueflame offering a 3" downpipe and race cat. A full 2.5" system will suffice for a K03s just fine.

Why not just get a tape measure against the existing pipework to find out what diameter the powerflow is? My guess would be 2.5 tbh but they do use a variety of different sizes.

Powerflow aren't always rated very highly because they don't use a very high grade of stainless steel, leaving it prone to corrosion over time the same as any other stock exhaust system. Other systems like Milltek use much higher grades of steel and also use machinery that ensures a higher precision of fabrication to ensure optimal airflow. The quality of these systems is pretty much guaranteed whereas a powerflow system can be very hit or miss depending on the ability of the fabricator at the outlet you choose to go to.

In my honest opinion I would say that the powerflow system is probably up for the job assuming you have an aftermarket downpipe and cat also fitted. However, if you're after the best then go for a proven system like a blueflame DP and Milltek cat-back for example.

 

[M87NER]

Mine did have a Powerflow cat back on-been changed today to a Blueflame T-B, I can honestly say that i had no problem with the powerflow exhaust-yes welding wasn't up to the best but it never give up and sounded nice, lol. it was also on the car when i purchased it-and its only a 52mm (2") bore.

 

[steve0]

Thanks for the replies chaps!

Yeah, mine was also on the car when purchased. I agree, mine does sound fairly good aswell.

I had a quick look under the car today, and it does look quite skimpy! I used to have a full 2.5" on my Scoob, and the one on the Ibiza definetly isnt that size. Im reckoning its likely to be 52mm - like yours was; so I think a full TB system is in order when some cash-flow arrives!

 

[Myki da Pyki]

Stabdard size on the cupra is 2 1/4" mate

 

[steve0]

Right, didnt know that. You wouldn't have thought a reputable 'performance' exhaust manufacturer would have put a smaller diameter exhaust on a car, than its standard item? Surely not?!

Although M47NER has stated above, that the Powerflow item on his car when he bought it was 52mmm....?

 

[Myki da Pyki]

Maybe they were worried about back pressure and if they dont know much about our cars then its quite possible they would use a smaller pipe.

Personally i got mine custom made by Infinity and mines 2.5" which is perfect for these engines