I wanted to get an up-pipe. Are there any pros or cons with flex pipe vs. solid pipe. I'm guessing installing a pipe with a flex section is a little easier and seals a little better. If there is any other advice to up-pipes please let me know. What do you guys got?
Just pick one in your desired price range and buy it. Installation will be equally difficult with both kinds and if you follow torque specs and use new gaskets, you'll get a proper seal with either kind. Just don't get one with a bung in it. Flex vs non-flex, 321 stainless vs 204 stainless vs cast iron, blah blah blah. Any of them will outlive your car. It's a great mod! (I have a Perrin)
Although I have a MRT flex up-pipe installed in my car, I can't give you any helpful info, but my research on the flex up-pipe found that the flex area will reduce engine vibrations that goes from the motor to the turbo. A non-flex up-pipe obviously has no vibration dampening material, but it will yield slightly better flow over the flex up-pipe. You want flow, but you don't want vibration. Is the OEM peice flexed, anyone? :???:
My 2 cents forthcoming: The vibration "issue" is way overplayed. The turbo is connected to the block via a bracket! Obviously I would have to sing a different tune if my uppipe cracked, but seriously, take a look at the flanges and the pipe itself. We will land men on Mars before anything happens to that pipe.
