Helix V2 Test Pipes - with support brackets this time (and why you need brackets)
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,730
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From: Lake Forest, CA 92630
Helix V2 Test Pipes - with support brackets this time (and why you need brackets)
Hey guys, the Helix test-pipes are back and better than before!!
I think this is pretty well known among the 350Z / G35 community that in Nissan's quest to build a powerful yet comfortable sports car, the motor mounts on the VQ35 engines were softened a bit. The result is substantial movement of the engine under hard acceleration and deceleration. And since the headers, test pipes, Y-pipe, and exhaust system are connected to the engine they are subjected to these stresses as well.
End result? We are seeing a lot of cracking / fracturing of aftermarket exhaust systems - usually around the Y-pipe or the test pipes. Sometimes the cracking is not severe - just enough fracturing for some exhaust gas to escape (thus the hissing). I know I've personally been through 3 test pipes on my Z, especially after aggressive (track) driving.
The Helix V2 Test Pipes substantially reduce this problem! The new Helix V2 test pipes have support brackets in the stock location thus transfering the energy to the bracket. I have been running the Helix test pipes for about 17,000 miles, a few track / mountain sessions and no cracking
.
Cheers,
Gary
gary@gruppe-s.com
I think this is pretty well known among the 350Z / G35 community that in Nissan's quest to build a powerful yet comfortable sports car, the motor mounts on the VQ35 engines were softened a bit. The result is substantial movement of the engine under hard acceleration and deceleration. And since the headers, test pipes, Y-pipe, and exhaust system are connected to the engine they are subjected to these stresses as well.
End result? We are seeing a lot of cracking / fracturing of aftermarket exhaust systems - usually around the Y-pipe or the test pipes. Sometimes the cracking is not severe - just enough fracturing for some exhaust gas to escape (thus the hissing). I know I've personally been through 3 test pipes on my Z, especially after aggressive (track) driving.
The Helix V2 Test Pipes substantially reduce this problem! The new Helix V2 test pipes have support brackets in the stock location thus transfering the energy to the bracket. I have been running the Helix test pipes for about 17,000 miles, a few track / mountain sessions and no cracking
. Cheers,
Gary
gary@gruppe-s.com
When it comes to catbacks, the breakage issue is because most aftermarket companies don't understand the importance of the OEM flex sections in the Y-pipe. Using shorter flex section or no flex section at all end up transmitting all the torque load to various parts of the exhaust under severe acceleration and even under cornering. This results in broken welds, brackets, and also increased NVH. If the company doesn't use OEM \-style flex sections then you really can't trust thier engineering know-how.
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,730
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From: Lake Forest, CA 92630
Originally Posted by Demonteverde
Gary, when is Helix going to make a carbon copy exhaust of the fujitsubo for the G35's like they did with the 350Z's?
The Helix 350Z exhaust was a limited production deal - actually it was private labeled from a famous Japanese exhaust manufacturer.
Not sure if we're getting anymore of either the 350Z or the G35 units...Thanks,
Gary
Gruppe-S
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Joined: Mar 2006
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From: Lake Forest, CA 92630
$149/pair is list, we are offering some combo deals right now (please give us a call!).
Unfortunately there are no 3" test pipes, you probably don't want to run 3" unless you are turbocharged and making in excess of 400whp.
Thanks,
Gary
Gruppe-S
Unfortunately there are no 3" test pipes, you probably don't want to run 3" unless you are turbocharged and making in excess of 400whp.
Thanks,
Gary
Gruppe-S
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,730
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From: Lake Forest, CA 92630
Originally Posted by Fay Diew
might be a retarded question but can cracking have anything to do with climate?
Thanks
Ben
Last edited by gruppe-s; Oct 19, 2007 at 01:49 PM.