MR2 Roadster Owners Club

Hi there. I would like to add some sound to my stock engine.

What options have people gone for with exhausts? I've driven an MR2 before that had some quad exhaust (looked ridiculous) and it was too quiet, I want something with a bit of shoutiness to it.

I was thinking of getting a custom one done like e.g. Tony Banks Exhausts but they quoted £500 which seems quite a lot for a catback (I could be wrong)

The only one on ebay is https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TOYOTA-MR2-MK3-ROADSTER-SPYDER-RACE-CAT-BACK-BACK-BOX-SPORTS-EXHAUST/274436520069
This seems to be a Malian exhaust, when googling it I don't get much other than a few negative / mixed reviews.

Suggestions?
Thanks.

Quote from: treeroy on September  4, 2020, 16:48Hi there. I would like to add some sound to my stock engine.

What options have people gone for with exhausts? I've driven an MR2 before that had some quad exhaust (looked ridiculous) and it was too quiet, I want something with a bit of shoutiness to it.

I was thinking of getting a custom one done like e.g. Tony Banks Exhausts but they quoted £500 which seems quite a lot for a catback (I could be wrong)

The only one on ebay is https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TOYOTA-MR2-MK3-ROADSTER-SPYDER-RACE-CAT-BACK-BACK-BOX-SPORTS-EXHAUST/274436520069
This seems to be a Malian exhaust, when googling it I don't get much other than a few negative / mixed reviews.

Suggestions?
Thanks.

@Ardent recently fitted one, there is a thread about the purchase, fitting and result. He might pop in and give you an update.

Ah yes.

@treeroy
As a new member you cannot view the sales section.

If you could, I would point you towards @Mikeymead tte for sale. Lovely sounding zost.

Mine is in the shed. And not sure whether to keep it or not.

If you dig out my Malian  thread there are some tte sound clips for reference.

I have a straight through Malian, but, I also have a little turbo acting as a silencer, so no idea what it would sound like raw.

Edit
To see sales section. You need 30+ posts. Time to get busy. ;)

If I were you, I'd get in touch with zero exhausts and ask Kevin to make you one. Going to cost you less than a brand new cobra, way less than a Remus, and be decent.

Added to which you can instantly create loudness by fitting a decat pipe in between MOT's - seriously much louder. Oh and a brand new cobra will definitely sound quieter than an older one as the packing ages..

Quote from: Ardent on September  4, 2020, 20:22Ah yes.

@treeroy
As a new member you cannot view the sales section.

If you could, I would point you towards @Mikeymead tte for sale. Lovely sounding zost.

Mine is in the shed. And not sure whether to keep it or not.

If you dig out my Malian  thread there are some tte sound clips for reference.

I have a straight through Malian, but, I also have a little turbo acting as a silencer, so no idea what it would sound like raw.

Edit
To see sales section. You need 30+ posts. Time to get busy. ;)

[/quote
Thanks. Useful to know there is a sales section, I'll get cracking on those posts!

The TTE, I've seen a few people talk about that, is TTE a Toyota sub-brand? / trim level type thing.
I been reading a few threads today about exhausts and some people saying TTE is too quiet. Although I just seen a video of TTE exhaust and it sounds good.

I suppose like most things here. It is a subjective thing.

Some find them too loud and intrusive when cruising.

You have found those that think too quiet.

For me, they are just right. My favourite sounding exhaust. Full stop.

If loud is your thing. Have a ferret in the southern belle thread. @Petrus has gone with a bike can. Some sound clips in there somewhere.

Quote from: treeroy on September  4, 2020, 20:56

Quote from: Ardent on September  4, 2020, 20:22Ah yes.

@treeroy
As a new member you cannot view the sales section.

If you could, I would point you towards @Mikeymead tte for sale. Lovely sounding zost.

Mine is in the shed. And not sure whether to keep it or not.

If you dig out my Malian  thread there are some tte sound clips for reference.

I have a straight through Malian, but, I also have a little turbo acting as a silencer, so no idea what it would sound like raw.

Edit
To see sales section. You need 30+ posts. Time to get busy. ;)

[/quote
Thanks. Useful to know there is a sales section, I'll get cracking on those posts!

The TTE, I've seen a few people talk about that, is TTE a Toyota sub-brand? / trim level type thing.
I been reading a few threads today about exhausts and some people saying TTE is too quiet. Although I just seen a video of TTE exhaust and it sounds good.

TTE was the racing division of Toyota, Toyota Team Europe is now Gazoo Racing Europe they produced many options

71C0980B-9357-4C2C-9D6B-2E5307C6FA6D.jpeg

888E0023-E238-4B63-BD01-4F3AF994A1D4.jpeg

Why do I find myself hankering after the handing kit, even though I would not know what to do with it if I had it.

If you were in Scotland I'd recommend these guys. My car came with their exhaust and it sounds amazing. https://www.stainless-creations.co.uk/

Best option as the others mentioned is to go custom, unless you go for a well known brand that has good customer service (there aren't many of those for our cars).

Pay less for a cheap off the shelf item and you'll pay twice.

exh3.jpgexh.jpgexh2.jpg

Out of warranty I guess, which came  first, the hole in the " can" or the separation of the components?

@treeroy Here is a photo of the TTE I have for sale.

IMG_2112.JPG

I'm asking £300 for it plus carriage.

It's a good sounding exhaust, about the right noise level, good burble on idle and nice pops on overrun.

Thanks @Bernie for the info about TTE, useful to know


@jvanzyl  thanks for the recommendation of Zero Exhausts. I will contact them for a quote. You mention Cobra, I think the Cobra quad exhaust is the one I've tried and I thought it was too quiet.


Custom was my thinking because there is not much range for the MR2, plus good custom exhaust places can make the exhaust you actually want. Would be crap to spend £400 on exhaust and it be disappointing sound.


@Mikeymead   what material is that made of? TTE is not stainless? Also your location says Bicester by the sea, last time I checked... Bicester is not near a sea lol :)

Quote from: treeroy on September  5, 2020, 16:48Thanks @Bernie for the info about TTE, useful to know


@jvanzyl  thanks for the recommendation of Zero Exhausts. I will contact them for a quote. You mention Cobra, I think the Cobra quad exhaust is the one I've tried and I thought it was too quiet.


Custom was my thinking because there is not much range for the MR2, plus good custom exhaust places can make the exhaust you actually want. Would be crap to spend £400 on exhaust and it be disappointing sound.


@Mikeymead   what material is that made of? TTE is not stainless? Also your location says Bicester by the sea, last time I checked... Bicester is not near a sea lol :)

Pretty sure it is stainless, when I reconditioned it I replicated the factory finish with the VHT paint on the ends. Yes Bicester is deffo not by the sea, was tongue in cheek.

Quote from: Mikeymead on September  5, 2020, 17:05

Quote from: treeroy on September  5, 2020, 16:48Thanks @Bernie for the info about TTE, useful to know


@jvanzyl  thanks for the recommendation of Zero Exhausts. I will contact them for a quote. You mention Cobra, I think the Cobra quad exhaust is the one I've tried and I thought it was too quiet.


Custom was my thinking because there is not much range for the MR2, plus good custom exhaust places can make the exhaust you actually want. Would be crap to spend £400 on exhaust and it be disappointing sound.


@Mikeymead   what material is that made of? TTE is not stainless? Also your location says Bicester by the sea, last time I checked... Bicester is not near a sea lol :)

Pretty sure it is stainless, when I reconditioned it I replicated the factory finish with the VHT paint on the ends. Yes Bicester is deffo not by the sea, was tongue in cheek.

It looks in great condition, I thought it was new judging by the picture.


Other thing swaying me to a custom job is that, if I get a catback system (TTE or alternative) i would still need to pay a garage to fit it. Not sure how easy the job is on an MR2 - is it more difficult than normal? Since you cant just lift the car and swap the exhausts. Got to take bumper off and presumably some other stuff that's structural on the other side of the bumper?

Anyone know how long it would take to change the exhaust?

Definitely don't have the confidence (and probably not the tools) to change the exhaust myself. Although I suppose it's easier on a driveway to get to the bumper, than it is underneath like on most cars....

Quote from: treeroy on September  5, 2020, 17:13

Quote from: Mikeymead on September  5, 2020, 17:05

Quote from: treeroy on September  5, 2020, 16:48Thanks @Bernie for the info about TTE, useful to know


@jvanzyl  thanks for the recommendation of Zero Exhausts. I will contact them for a quote. You mention Cobra, I think the Cobra quad exhaust is the one I've tried and I thought it was too quiet.


Custom was my thinking because there is not much range for the MR2, plus good custom exhaust places can make the exhaust you actually want. Would be crap to spend £400 on exhaust and it be disappointing sound.


@Mikeymead   what material is that made of? TTE is not stainless? Also your location says Bicester by the sea, last time I checked... Bicester is not near a sea lol :)

Pretty sure it is stainless, when I reconditioned it I replicated the factory finish with the VHT paint on the ends. Yes Bicester is deffo not by the sea, was tongue in cheek.

It looks in great condition, I thought it was new judging by the picture.


Other thing swaying me to a custom job is that, if I get a catback system (TTE or alternative) i would still need to pay a garage to fit it. Not sure how easy the job is on an MR2 - is it more difficult than normal? Since you cant just lift the car and swap the exhausts. Got to take bumper off and presumably some other stuff that's structural on the other side of the bumper?

Anyone know how long it would take to change the exhaust?

Definitely don't have the confidence (and probably not the tools) to change the exhaust myself. Although I suppose it's easier on a driveway to get to the bumper, than it is underneath like on most cars....

It's quite easy, lights out, bumper off, remove crash bar, top heat shield off and bingo, I swapped my whole system in a morning, okay I was lucky as nothing was seized or broke.

Link to my swap - https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?msg=828340

@treeroy

I swapped mine.
And there I'm no spanner spinner.
I Did not remove the crash bar.
Most difficult thing was getting the rubber hanger things off the hooks.

Quote from: Joesson on September  5, 2020, 14:58Out of warranty I guess, which came  first, the hole in the " can" or the separation of the components?

First was the baffles inside, they started rattling awfully. I assume the separation cracks were first but I couldn't exactly see the hole, it was always out of sight for me when I looked at the exhaust even with absolutely all of the heat shielding and nappies gone from the engine bay. It completely fell apart when I decided to take off the exhaust to weld the separation. All of these issues happened in a short time.

Warranty or not, the stock exhaust managed minimum 50x longer distance and who knows how many times it has suffered debilitating heat cycles as I've gone through front brake pads so quickly to a point they were throwing sparks and lighting up the road.

@treeroy If one of the main reasons for you hesitating buying my TTE exhaust is fitting it then I may be able to help.

If you don't mind driving to my workshop at Kidlington one Sunday I don't mind giving you a hand to fit it, I have all the tools necessary to do this and deal with any problems we may encounter.

Just thought that I'd make the offer.

Quote from: Mikeymead on September  6, 2020, 14:22@treeroy If one of the main reasons for you hesitating buying my TTE exhaust is fitting it then I may be able to help.

If you don't mind driving to my workshop at Kidlington one Sunday I don't mind giving you a hand to fit it, I have all the tools necessary to do this and deal with any problems we may encounter.

Just thought that I'd make the offer.

That is a very generous offer, if I were to buy that exhaust then I would take you up on it for sure. You are not too far from me.

I have had a listen to some youtube videos of the TTE and it doesn't seem that loud, how much can you hear from the cabin? I'm conscious that as you have an engine making sound between you and the exhaust in the MR2, you can't necessarily hear the exhaust too well.

As an optional item fitted by Toyota I would not expect it to have a great sound but I could be wrong.

You can definitely hear it in the cabin, even with a hard top on but it's not so noisy as to become a pain on a longer Journey. To be honest it sounded slightly louder than the system I have now. It's loud enough to bring a smile to your face but not so much as to be anti social. Really depends on what you want.

Quote from: jvanzyl on September  4, 2020, 20:26If I were you, I'd get in touch with zero exhausts and ask Kevin to make you one. Going to cost you less than a brand new cobra, way less than a Remus, and be decent.

Added to which you can instantly create loudness by fitting a decat pipe in between MOT's - seriously much louder. Oh and a brand new cobra will definitely sound quieter than an older one as the packing ages..

Have you had a price back from Kevin yet? I'd be surprised if his quality cost way less than a Remus? Not to mention a Cobra.

I've just spent 800 miles following a TTE equipped MR2 round North Wales and they're a beautiful thing to listen to, I can hear it above my set up almost.
If you add some form of induction kit behind the battery you'll increase your noise level even more, if that's your kind of thing...

@treeroy

Hopefully this works.
My tte.
https://1drv.ms/f/s!AjKQRUlKMbdSgbAF34lIKbroryanBw

Quote from: Call the midlife! on September  6, 2020, 20:30

Quote from: jvanzyl on September  4, 2020, 20:26If I were you, I'd get in touch with zero exhausts and ask Kevin to make you one. Going to cost you less than a brand new cobra, way less than a Remus, and be decent.

Added to which you can instantly create loudness by fitting a decat pipe in between MOT's - seriously much louder. Oh and a brand new cobra will definitely sound quieter than an older one as the packing ages..

Have you had a price back from Kevin yet? I'd be surprised if his quality cost way less than a Remus? Not to mention a Cobra.

Yeah they exhaust component for the turbo system came to £350.

Hence my confidence in the price 😁

Quote from: jvanzyl on September  6, 2020, 21:19

Quote from: Call the midlife! on September  6, 2020, 20:30

Quote from: jvanzyl on September  4, 2020, 20:26If I were you, I'd get in touch with zero exhausts and ask Kevin to make you one. Going to cost you less than a brand new cobra, way less than a Remus, and be decent.

Added to which you can instantly create loudness by fitting a decat pipe in between MOT's - seriously much louder. Oh and a brand new cobra will definitely sound quieter than an older one as the packing ages..

Have you had a price back from Kevin yet? I'd be surprised if his quality cost way less than a Remus? Not to mention a Cobra.

Yeah they exhaust component for the turbo system came to £350.

Hence my confidence in the price 😁

I'm amazed at that, considering the price of the manifolds but I suppose there's less intricate welding and shaping on a cat back. 👍🏻

Mind, the TTE does become loud once you start looking at bespoke manifolds and decat/sports cat.
Droney on motorway.
But, I dare say that on stock cat it's by far the best sound. There's a reason I have mine despite the drone

Quote from: Call the midlife! on September  6, 2020, 20:33I've just spent 800 miles following a TTE equipped MR2 round North Wales and they're a beautiful thing to listen to, I can hear it above my set up almost.
If you add some form of induction kit behind the battery you'll increase your noise level even more, if that's your kind of thing...

Thanks. People do seem happy with the TTE exhaust.

I know an induction kit will increase noise but a lot of people have said it screws the car's performance up so think I'll pass on that.

@Ardent  thanks for that link to your sound files. Nice turbo noise too ;)

Quote from: treeroy on September  6, 2020, 21:33

Quote from: Call the midlife! on September  6, 2020, 20:33I've just spent 800 miles following a TTE equipped MR2 round North Wales and they're a beautiful thing to listen to, I can hear it above my set up almost.
If you add some form of induction kit behind the battery you'll increase your noise level even more, if that's your kind of thing...

Thanks. People do seem happy with the TTE exhaust.

I know an induction kit will increase noise but a lot of people have said it screws the car's performance up so think I'll pass on that.

@Ardent  thanks for that link to your sound files. Nice turbo noise too ;)

Some kits do more harm than good, probably, some if installed properly do less harm than good but they all make more noise.

Another vote for TTE. Mine is on a stock cat, stock intake and a Toyosports manifold. It sounds bloody great!

It is a little loud especially from a cold start but it's not too bad once warmed up. Gives some nice discreet burbles on overrun and very rarely a nice little pop (but nothing too "council" for my taste). Agreed it does drone on the motorway, and whilst I do end up on motorways with mine (to get to good B roads) it's not what I bought the car for and I've sort of got used to it.

Quote from: jvanzyl on September  6, 2020, 21:19Yeah they exhaust component for the turbo system came to £350.

Hence my confidence in the price 😁

Can You post photos, please?

After replacing header and cat, TTE exhaust  became very loud. Much to loud when you driving 350km with speed  160km/h :/

@treeroy

It does not help that not all tte sound the same.

Mine came with one, until I parked next to another did I realize, mine sounded rumbly and grubmbly compared to the civilized one next to me.

Only when I was having some work done, did it become apparent mine was leaking. When put back together with new rings and v bands, it sounded different. Civilized but still with a nice rumble, but not anti social.

Obviously the sound clips of my tte are with a turbo, so on non turbo car will sound different again.

In my book, they are the best sounding. 

Quote from: tom256 on September  6, 2020, 22:03

Quote from: jvanzyl on September  6, 2020, 21:19Yeah they exhaust component for the turbo system came to £350.

Hence my confidence in the price 😁

Can You post photos, please?

After replacing header and cat, TTE exhaust  became very loud. Much to loud when you driving 350km with speed  160km/h :/

No pics, but as part of my conversation with Kevin at Zero, this is what he priced it at. I have no idea if the exhaust for a turbo car would be any different in terms of routing/ease of construction than a NA car.
But the cool thing is you can get a zero header, sports cat and exhaust now... be nice to get a full set.

sorry if it's a daft question but what is a "header"? I keep seeing people refer to this. not heard of it on any previous car i've had.

Quote from: jvanzyl on September  6, 2020, 22:31

Quote from: tom256 on September  6, 2020, 22:03

Quote from: jvanzyl on September  6, 2020, 21:19Yeah they exhaust component for the turbo system came to £350.

Hence my confidence in the price 😁

Can You post photos, please?

After replacing header and cat, TTE exhaust  became very loud. Much to loud when you driving 350km with speed  160km/h :/

No pics, but as part of my conversation with Kevin at Zero, this is what he priced it at. I have no idea if the exhaust for a turbo car would be any different in terms of routing/ease of construction than a NA car.
But the cool thing is you can get a zero header, sports cat and exhaust now... be nice to get a full set.

I think @Mikeymead has.

Quote from: treeroy on September  6, 2020, 22:37sorry if it's a daft question but what is a "header"? I keep seeing people refer to this. not heard of it on any previous car i've had.

What replaces the stock manifold.

Quote from: treeroy on September  6, 2020, 22:37sorry if it's a daft question but what is a "header"? I keep seeing people refer to this. not heard of it on any previous car i've had.

Exhaust manifold.
Headers is an American word that has been picked up.
I blame the internet 😅

Message sent

I bought the below from @thetyrant that he made himself. Think it only cost around £120 to make and its brilliant. 6kg lighter than the OE unit, revs so much more freely and there's 100% power increase. Oh and it sounds awesome.

I had the Corbra quad tip before this which was a piece of junk.

Screenshot_20200907-075321_Gallery.jpg

I did similar to the above, but chopped off and re-used the bends from the original back box, and added a 6"×16" round silencer from ebay for £45. People fit larger bore exhausts but technically 1.9" is enough for 150bhp, so I would stick with the standard 2" (unless the car is getting seriously upgraded in the engine department, of course!).

Sounds close to standard while cruising, just a little more 'burble', but much louder when using larger throttle openings, and it definitely feels like the engine revs more freely up the top end.

(Video for sound, not for speed ;D )

Quote from: JB21 on September  7, 2020, 07:54I bought the below from @thetyrant that he made himself. Think it only cost around £120 to make and its brilliant. 6kg lighter than the OE unit, revs so much more freely and there's 100% power increase. Oh and it sounds awesome.

I had the Corbra quad tip before this which was a piece of junk.

Screenshot_20200907-075321_Gallery.jpg

Should of kept that im going to have to make another once turbo is sorted again :D

Quote from: AdamR28 on September  7, 2020, 08:21People fit larger bore exhausts but technically 1.9" is enough for 150bhp

I've got a 2.5" custom stainless exhaust - how can I tell what bhp it would be good for?

Double post

https://www.mk5cortinaestate.co.uk/calculator5.php

The numbers tally up with 'real world' in my experience.

Quote from: AdamR28 on September  7, 2020, 09:18https://www.mk5cortinaestate.co.uk/calculator5.php

The numbers tally up with 'real world' in my experience.

Thanks, that's useful to know if I ever decide to do something bonkers like a turbo.

Quote from: 1979scotte on September  7, 2020, 06:07

Quote from: treeroy on September  6, 2020, 22:37sorry if it's a daft question but what is a "header"? I keep seeing people refer to this. not heard of it on any previous car i've had.

Exhaust manifold.
Headers is an American word that has been picked up.
I blame the internet 😅

Strange name for a manifold!
Speaking of which where do people buy their decat manifolds from? On ebay there are 2 you can buy but they're unbranded, I can't find any Toyosports or other brands.

Quote from: househead on September  6, 2020, 21:57Another vote for TTE. Mine is on a stock cat, stock intake and a Toyosports manifold. It sounds bloody great!

It is a little loud especially from a cold start but it's not too bad once warmed up. Gives some nice discreet burbles on overrun and very rarely a nice little pop (but nothing too "council" for my taste). Agreed it does drone on the motorway, and whilst I do end up on motorways with mine (to get to good B roads) it's not what I bought the car for and I've sort of got used to it.

The first time I fitted my 2nd hand TTE exhaust it was unbearable at 70mph. I had it cut open (as per someone else's previous post) and it had no packing left inside it. Once re-packed and welded back up it's much quieter but still a lot more interesting sound than stock. I just need to sort out sealing up the 'tips' to the box.

Just spoke to Kevin at Zero Exhausts and he doesn't do backboxes for the 1ZZ so that is one less option, makes things a bit easier I suppose.

Quote from: barchetta_ms on September  7, 2020, 09:57

Quote from: househead on September  6, 2020, 21:57Another vote for TTE. Mine is on a stock cat, stock intake and a Toyosports manifold. It sounds bloody great!

It is a little loud especially from a cold start but it's not too bad once warmed up. Gives some nice discreet burbles on overrun and very rarely a nice little pop (but nothing too "council" for my taste). Agreed it does drone on the motorway, and whilst I do end up on motorways with mine (to get to good B roads) it's not what I bought the car for and I've sort of got used to it.

The first time I fitted my 2nd hand TTE exhaust it was unbearable at 70mph. I had it cut open (as per someone else's previous post) and it had no packing left inside it. Once re-packed and welded back up it's much quieter but still a lot more interesting sound than stock. I just need to sort out sealing up the 'tips' to the box.

That may have been me. I had mine repacked. Not sure how they did it, but it lasted about 3 months before it spat it all back out again.

Quote from: treeroy on September  7, 2020, 10:07Just spoke to Kevin at Zero Exhausts and he doesn't do backboxes for the 1ZZ so that is one less option, makes things a bit easier I suppose.

That's odd... He has definitely done at least one. Maybe he means he doesn't do it to the stock cat? He doesn't like delivering stuff after the manifold because he wants it to fit perfectly.

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:10

Quote from: treeroy on September  7, 2020, 10:07Just spoke to Kevin at Zero Exhausts and he doesn't do backboxes for the 1ZZ so that is one less option, makes things a bit easier I suppose.

That's odd... He has definitely done at least one. Maybe he means he doesn't do it to the stock cat? He doesn't like delivering stuff after the manifold because he wants it to fit perfectly.

They do offer an exhaust manifold/ header at £396.
https://zeroexhausts.co.uk/pricing/

Nice to see our car listed with other illustrious models!

Quote from: Joesson on September  7, 2020, 11:22

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:10

Quote from: treeroy on September  7, 2020, 10:07Just spoke to Kevin at Zero Exhausts and he doesn't do backboxes for the 1ZZ so that is one less option, makes things a bit easier I suppose.

That's odd... He has definitely done at least one. Maybe he means he doesn't do it to the stock cat? He doesn't like delivering stuff after the manifold because he wants it to fit perfectly.

They do offer an exhaust manifold/ header at £396.
https://zeroexhausts.co.uk/pricing/

Nice to see our car listed with other illustrious models!

Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

Quote from: thetyrant on September  7, 2020, 08:27

Quote from: JB21 on September  7, 2020, 07:54I bought the below from @thetyrant that he made himself. Think it only cost around £120 to make and its brilliant. 6kg lighter than the OE unit, revs so much more freely and there's 100% power increase. Oh and it sounds awesome.

I had the Corbra quad tip before this which was a piece of junk.

Screenshot_20200907-075321_Gallery.jpg

Should of kept that im going to have to make another once turbo is sorted again :D

I'd be interested in one myself

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:46Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

His manifold and sports cat are expensive... like double what you should be paying really.

On the phone earlier he said that he can't help with making a backbox. So idk.

Quote from: treeroy on September  7, 2020, 14:01

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:46Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

His manifold and sports cat are expensive... like double what you should be paying really.

On the phone earlier he said that he can't help with making a backbox. So idk.

The sports cat is actually VERY well priced for a quality cat (Magnaflow performance 200cell) and top quality actual stainless steel with 100% perfect fit. I paid 450 for a custom equivalent.


The manifold, again, is spot on price. This isn't just another ebay copy. This high quality steel, equal length and tuned collector with wider pipes. You won't find a piece like this under 396,or anywhere near it. 

Yes you can get a 90quid ebay manifold (not equal length, thin pipes and questionable steel at best, without brackets and flanges that warp). And a cat can be had for 120 but fitmebt is iffy at best, it won't be anywhere near proper stainless and good luck with MOT :)

I had a chance conversation with an exhaust builder earlier this year. I showed him a picture of my Zero manifold & he thought it was 'ok', nothing more. He also thought that the curved pipes would have been bought from a company like his, - part of what they do is make formed pipes for exhaust-builders....??? 
Whether the Zero is good value or not, I don't know.

I think the cat price is not. The Magnaflow can be bought on ebay for under £100.

Have to agree with shnazzle, having had both the difference is night and day in both quality and fit.

Quote from: Gaz mr-s on September  7, 2020, 15:36I had a chance conversation with an exhaust builder earlier this year. I showed him a picture of my Zero manifold & he thought it was 'ok', nothing more. He also thought that the curved pipes would have been bought from a company like his, - part of what they do is make formed pipes for exhaust-builders....??? 
Whether the Zero is good value or not, I don't know.

I think the cat price is not. The Magnaflow can be bought on ebay for under £100.

I installed a zero manifold that JVanzyl had bought when we did an engine swap for him.  I can attest that it was of the highest quality of materials and construction and design.  Dissing things from a photograph is pretty poor form in my book.

@Carolyn .... did you read my post carefully enough?  I had one, it was the pic of mine (with additional ceramic coating) that he saw.  The way it was made suggested to him that it wasn't all made in one place.
 

Quote from: treeroy on September  7, 2020, 14:01

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:46Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

His manifold and sports cat are expensive... like double what you should be paying really.


On the phone earlier he said that he can't help with making a backbox. So idk.

I have a full Zero system from Kevin: manifold, cat and back box and I can attest that the whole thing is absolutely top quality from one end to the other. I doubt you will find a better exhaust builder in the UK. The reason that Kevin won't send out a backbox but insists on building them in his workshop, on the car, is because he makes it bespoke to your requirements - like a perfectly-fitted Saville Row suit. His follow-up customer service is superb too; he gives a lifetime guarantee (if you can get to him for a yearly check-up).

Yes, it's not cheap - the system cost me £1500 (albeit I bought the manifold and backbox in 2015 and added the cat this year) - but it looks beautiful, sounds fantastic - just the right blend of burble and pop - and I think it has added some hp to the car (and I don't care if it hasn't!). If you can afford it (or one part of it) you should do it.

Quote from: Gaz mr-s on September  7, 2020, 20:55@Carolyn .... did you read my post carefully enough?  I had one, it was the pic of mine (with additional ceramic coating) that he saw.  The way it was made suggested to him that it wasn't all made in one place.
 

I can attest that Kevin makes everything in his workshop because I've seen him do it. He has invested a huge amount of money in the best mandrel bending machines from the US. Go and visit him and see a master craftsman at work.

BTW - I am not related to Kevin! And I live a long way from him, but the journeys were worth it.

Quote from: InnerStaytes on September  7, 2020, 21:56

Quote from: Gaz mr-s on September  7, 2020, 20:55@Carolyn .... did you read my post carefully enough?  I had one, it was the pic of mine (with additional ceramic coating) that he saw.  The way it was made suggested to him that it wasn't all made in one place.
 

I can attest that Kevin makes everything in his workshop because I've seen him do it. He has invested a huge amount of money in the best mandrel bending machines from the US. Go and visit him and see a master craftsman at work.

BTW - I am not related to Kevin! And I live a long way from him, but the journeys were worth it.

I guess I could be called a voyeur regarding modifications rather than an active participant, I have read on here in particular about wrapping manifolds ( headers!)so does Kevin/ Zero advocate this?

Quote from: Gaz mr-s on September  7, 2020, 20:55@Carolyn .... did you read my post carefully enough?  I had one, it was the pic of mine (with additional ceramic coating) that he saw.  The way it was made suggested to him that it wasn't all made in one place.
 

What a load of tosh!, no way you can judge the quality or hows its built from a picture, sure it might look similar to something else after all its just some bent/welded tube but no way he could tell for sure to imply what he did, ive no idea if Zero make it all in house but sounds like they do looking at above, typical internet rumour mill gets companies a bad name from hearsay and speculation :(

I don't know Kevin's opinion on that, but I am sure he would have one! I think the general consensus is that high quality stainless like Kevin's can take wrapping whereas poorer quality suffers for it (because of moisture retention by the wrap?).

I haven't felt inclined to wrap mine. I would quite fancy a ceramic coating, but I doubt I'll do it now - I think the time would be when it is brand new.

I'm no expert, but I doubt wrapping makes a really significant difference to a good system. And to me it spoils the look. My Zero is five years old and still looks great.

Quote from: Joesson on September  7, 2020, 22:09I guess I could be called a voyeur regarding modifications rather than an active participant, I have read on here in particular about wrapping manifolds ( headers!)so does Kevin/ Zero advocate this?

Yes, Kevin said it could be wrapped because of the high quality of the steel.

Quote from: Gaz mr-s on September  7, 2020, 20:55@Carolyn .... did you read my post carefully enough?  I had one, it was the pic of mine (with additional ceramic coating) that he saw.  The way it was made suggested to him that it wasn't all made in one place.
 

Actually thinking about it you are correct. I had to wait 10 days or so for my cat because Kevin was waiting for some flanges (or something) to be made off site. I think he gets a whole batch made up at once. That may be true for the manifold as well. So, your contact knows what he's talking about.

However, I don't believe that has any impact on the quality of the finished product.

Quote from: InnerStaytes on September  7, 2020, 21:56I can attest that Kevin makes everything in his workshop because I've seen him do it. He has invested a huge amount of money in the best mandrel bending machines from the US. Go and visit him and see a master craftsman at work.

I'll state again.... I bought one, (& I'm a lot further away....)

If he does make all the parts then the guy I was speaking to is incorrect.

Lol...... the guy I talked to was talking about the curved pipes.  Judging by what you've said though, incorrect.  ;)

He gets flanges in. Because why the hell would you fabricate flanges from scratch that are standard for 1zz/2zz?
But pipework, not sure how he would buy that... That's all custom made. Obviously he doesn't forge the steel... But you get what I mean.
Anyway, it's a proven excellent quality piece of kit as proven over more than 10 years of service to MR2s alone.

Get a 90 quid mani and rust-stacular cat from Malian or ebay and be done with it :) it does the job. These aren't exactly race cars. 90% of drivers wouldn't notice thr difference between a Zero and an ebay bag of sh1te anyway.

But if you're after quality... That's the provider to go for

Quote from: Gaz mr-s on September  7, 2020, 20:55@Carolyn .... did you read my post carefully enough?  I had one, it was the pic of mine (with additional ceramic coating) that he saw.  The way it was made suggested to him that it wasn't all made in one place.
 

Not aimed at you, Gary, more at your buddy.... Having people with the right pipe bending kit do your bends for you is common practice and no detraction from quality.

Quote from: Carolyn on September  8, 2020, 08:32

Quote from: Gaz mr-s on September  7, 2020, 20:55@Carolyn .... did you read my post carefully enough?  I had one, it was the pic of mine (with additional ceramic coating) that he saw.  The way it was made suggested to him that it wasn't all made in one place.
 

Not aimed at you, Gary, more at your buddy.... Having people with the right pipe bending kit do your bends for you is common practice and no detraction from quality.

I mentioned elsewhere Dairy pipe line stainless bends. These are made of food grade stainless steel. When we lived in Salisbury, over 15 years ago, there was a guy who built custom trikes. He used the Dairy pipe line bends , to make the exhausts, and they were works of art.
Few engineering manufacturers, if any, make  everything from raw materials although I did once work for an engineering company that had its own foundry for producing some components but  the economy of scale today determines that which can be obtained from a specialist supplier will  be.

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:46Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

For what it's worth  - just thought i would reply to let you know - that I spoke to Kevin at zero exhausts and asked if you bring a car to him will he do a backbox - and he said no, he is not able to make a backbox on a 1ZZ. Only a 2ZZ swapped mr2.

Quote from: Karthoum on September  5, 2020, 14:43Best option as the others mentioned is to go custom, unless you go for a well known brand that has good customer service (there aren't many of those for our cars).

Pay less for a cheap off the shelf item and you'll pay twice.

exh3.jpgexh.jpgexh2.jpg

Is this the Milan centre exit that I've got my heart set on once I've persuaded my other half?

Quote from: treeroy on September 11, 2020, 13:15

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:46Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

For what it's worth  - just thought i would reply to let you know - that I spoke to Kevin at zero exhausts and asked if you bring a car to him will he do a backbox - and he said no, he is not able to make a backbox on a 1ZZ. Only a 2ZZ swapped mr2.

Huh... 

@Mikeymead didn't you just get a backbox from him? Or was it someone else? Someone was saying they got a full system.. I'm obviously wrong.

Quote from: shnazzle on September 11, 2020, 14:15

Quote from: treeroy on September 11, 2020, 13:15

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:46Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

For what it's worth  - just thought i would reply to let you know - that I spoke to Kevin at zero exhausts and asked if you bring a car to him will he do a backbox - and he said no, he is not able to make a backbox on a 1ZZ. Only a 2ZZ swapped mr2.

Huh...

@Mikeymead didn't you just get a backbox from him? Or was it someone else? Someone was saying they got a full system.. I'm obviously wrong.

No I got the opposite, manifold and sport cat,back box is Blitz Nurspec.   

Quote from: Mikeymead on September 11, 2020, 16:58

Quote from: shnazzle on September 11, 2020, 14:15

Quote from: treeroy on September 11, 2020, 13:15

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:46Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

For what it's worth  - just thought i would reply to let you know - that I spoke to Kevin at zero exhausts and asked if you bring a car to him will he do a backbox - and he said no, he is not able to make a backbox on a 1ZZ. Only a 2ZZ swapped mr2.

Huh...

@Mikeymead didn't you just get a backbox from him? Or was it someone else? Someone was saying they got a full system.. I'm obviously wrong.

No I got the opposite, manifold and sport cat,back box is Blitz Nurspec. 

Well then I talka di shiiiita

Quote from: treeroy on September 11, 2020, 13:15

Quote from: shnazzle on September  7, 2020, 11:46Yes that's the Zero manifold that has been known for quite a while. Added to his arsenal is the 200 cell Magnaflow cat (I believe it's £320).  And, to my knowledge, if you drop by he will make you a backbox but it has to be fitted on the car. He won't make one without the car in shop.

For what it's worth  - just thought i would reply to let you know - that I spoke to Kevin at zero exhausts and asked if you bring a car to him will he do a backbox - and he said no, he is not able to make a backbox on a 1ZZ. Only a 2ZZ swapped mr2.

That's interesting. He made a full cat-back exhaust for me and fitted one of his manifolds at the same time. That was 5 years ago mind you, so maybe he has changed his mind. Or maybe he will only make a catback for a 1ZZ if you are having a manifold as well, but I don't think that was his policy 5 years ago.I will drop him an email and ask for clarification.

Quote from: InnerStaytes on September 11, 2020, 22:42That's interesting. He made a full cat-back exhaust for me and fitted one of his manifolds at the same time. That was 5 years ago mind you, so maybe he has changed his mind. Or maybe he will only make a catback for a 1ZZ if you are having a manifold as well, but I don't think that was his policy 5 years ago.I will drop him an email and ask for clarification.

I send him mail few days ago. He answered that he is working on developing new backbox for MR2.

Oh no. Now I need another one!  :o

Kevin originally said he would make a back box for me @shnazzle at the start of the year. Was all booked in For May until Covid hit then when decided to cancel it. So your not going mad!

Would of been a full Zero system  :'(

Maybe he has changed his mind again on doing them.

Quote from: Amarlborough on September 12, 2020, 18:56Kevin originally said he would make a back box for me @shnazzle at the start of the year. Was all booked in For May until Covid hit then when decided to cancel it. So your not going mad!

Would of been a full Zero system  :'(

Maybe he has changed his mind again on doing them.

Thank you! 

That was actually haunting me since that post. I've been trawling the forum looking for evidence. 

( @cptspaulding more evidence? :) )

Don't worry. Kevin is still happy to make back boxes for the MR2 (1ZZ). He just has to make them in situ in his workshop in Kent. The challenge he has is  fabricating the pressed steel flanges he needs for the 1ZZ catbacks. It would cost a lot for his suppliers to tool up to make them (£1,000 ++). So, as he did for me, he currently cuts the flange off the OEM exhaust to add to his catback. Which means you have to go to him in Kent and have him work on your car in his workshop (might take a week or two). A very small price to pay tbh. My own exhaust was a 600 mile roundtrip (car and train) and two weeks work. Was it worth it? Absolutely! Five years later and no regrets.

Quote from: InnerStaytes on September 12, 2020, 21:03Don't worry. Kevin is still happy to make back boxes for the MR2 (1ZZ). He just has to make them in situ in his workshop in Kent. The challenge he has is  fabricating the pressed steel flanges he needs for the 1ZZ catbacks. It would cost a lot for his suppliers to tool up to make them (£1,000 ++). So, as he did for me, he currently cuts the flange off the OEM exhaust to add to his catback. Which means you have to go to him in Kent and have him work on your car in his workshop (might take a week or two). A very small price to pay tbh. My own exhaust was a 600 mile roundtrip (car and train) and two weeks work. Was it worth it? Absolutely! Five years later and no regrets.

I had a similar experience with a local Powerflow dealer, repurposed the flange off my standard cat to make my sport cat.

Quote from: Call the midlife! on September 12, 2020, 21:09

Quote from: InnerStaytes on September 12, 2020, 21:03Don't worry. Kevin is still happy to make back boxes for the MR2 (1ZZ). He just has to make them in situ in his workshop in Kent. The challenge he has is  fabricating the pressed steel flanges he needs for the 1ZZ catbacks. It would cost a lot for his suppliers to tool up to make them (£1,000 ++). So, as he did for me, he currently cuts the flange off the OEM exhaust to add to his catback. Which means you have to go to him in Kent and have him work on your car in his workshop (might take a week or two). A very small price to pay tbh. My own exhaust was a 600 mile roundtrip (car and train) and two weeks work. Was it worth it? Absolutely! Five years later and no regrets.

I had a similar experience with a local Powerflow dealer, repurposed the flange off my standard cat to make my sport cat.

Same here. My cat was utterly destroyed so no loss cutting the flange off. Saved me about 40 quid I think

Quote from: shnazzle on September 12, 2020, 21:37

Quote from: Call the midlife! on September 12, 2020, 21:09

Quote from: InnerStaytes on September 12, 2020, 21:03Don't worry. Kevin is still happy to make back boxes for the MR2 (1ZZ). He just has to make them in situ in his workshop in Kent. The challenge he has is  fabricating the pressed steel flanges he needs for the 1ZZ catbacks. It would cost a lot for his suppliers to tool up to make them (£1,000 ++). So, as he did for me, he currently cuts the flange off the OEM exhaust to add to his catback. Which means you have to go to him in Kent and have him work on your car in his workshop (might take a week or two). A very small price to pay tbh. My own exhaust was a 600 mile roundtrip (car and train) and two weeks work. Was it worth it? Absolutely! Five years later and no regrets.

I had a similar experience with a local Powerflow dealer, repurposed the flange off my standard cat to make my sport cat.

Same here. My cat was utterly destroyed so no loss cutting the flange off. Saved me about 40 quid I think

I lost more money in forgetting to ask for my old cat back when I picked the car up 😂

Quote from: thetyrant on September  7, 2020, 08:27

Quote from: JB21 on September  7, 2020, 07:54I bought the below from @thetyrant that he made himself. Think it only cost around £120 to make and its brilliant. 6kg lighter than the OE unit, revs so much more freely and there's 100% power increase. Oh and it sounds awesome.

I had the Corbra quad tip before this which was a piece of junk.
Could we request that thetyrant does a how to on his custom exhausts

Screenshot_20200907-075321_Gallery.jpg

Should of kept that im going to have to make another once turbo is sorted again :D

There is nothing like having a custom exhaust from an experienced builder. I live in an area where labor prices for custom exhaust work is outrageous. I contemplated  my options and just made my own with a little bit of courage. I bought a cheap Chinese flux core welder for $70 that doesn't require gas and learned watching youtube videos and practicing on my old exhaust before I did the real thing. I was able to buy the mandrel pipes in the lengths I needed  and had a cut off tool to cut to fit before welding.  My welds are not pretty but strong and functional but most of all I got my exhaust exactly the way I wanted it which was though the bumper with trumpet tips. 
 Those of you thinking of DIY exhaust its not that difficult and there is a lot of savings as long as you plan it out but the skills you learn during the process can save you a fortune with future projects.
 This is not a substitute for good work from a pro however you can make a functional exhaust that works well and welding is enjoyable.

Thanks Dev. What did you use as a silencer? I was looking at magnaflow silencers on eBay for about £70 and tubing. Just asking someone to weld it together for me. Must be Cheaper and you can design it the way you want.

Quote from: Smithy on October 18, 2020, 20:13Thanks Dev. What did you use as a silencer? I was looking at magnaflow silencers on eBay for about £70 and tubing. Just asking someone to weld it together for me. Must be Cheaper and you can design it the way you want.

I used a Magnaflow Camaro muffler because it has the right inlet and exit pipes. Its similar to the famous Team Moon exhaust which I previous had that sounds great. Very similar sounding from what I heard with posted clips of the Hayward & Scott you guys use to have as an option. I was able to pick up some mandrel bend pipes in the radius I needed and it all worked out using the old hangers from my cannibalized  previous exhaust welded to the new one. The good thing is, you are not dealing with thick metal so getting good penetration with the weld is possible and you can stitch weld around the pipe and it should not fail you.  If I had to do it again I could easily finish in less then half the time because you pick up experience as you move along.
IMG_0386.jpg

That looks fantastic Dev thanks for showing us

Quote from: Smithy on October 19, 2020, 09:30That looks fantastic Dev thanks for showing us

You are most welcome. If I were to do it again I would use flux core wire made for stainless steel so the welds don't rust and use a small grinder to even out the welds so they look pretty. Apart from that if you take it to a exhaust guy it should be easy for them because the exhaust is not underneath like a traditional car. It makes it easy to spot weld in place and then the rest can be done on a bench. 

Absolutely, it's the easiest car ever to work on the exhaust!

I did similar, chopping the bends and flange off the old back box, and mating them to a simple silencer box from eBay:

https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/351568797203

https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?topic=69843.msg831911#msg831911

Quote from: AdamR28 on October 19, 2020, 14:12I did similar, chopping the bends and flange off the old back box, and mating them to a simple silencer box from eBay:

I used an alloy sleeved Arrows no-muffler from a motorbike.

VÉRY loud but that has unexpected advantages. Today had a bi row with gf because she had not heard me pop down to village for a moment, 20 minutes at most. I did tell her I was going to but not said ´going NÓW´ sigh...
I never do but she hears my car leave, now she had not so she expected me still around. Best not argue that her assumption did not make an ass out of mé; just say ´sorry, will do next time´. Swapping the loud pipe back on later today anyway.

 If you want to know what It sounds like on a 1ZZ here is a clip. It was taken 15 years ago. I cant believe its been that long. With the 2ZZ it sounds like a big liter bike or the nastiness of a small carburetor V8 with aggressive cams. I get plenty of complements on the sound because it doesn't sound like a typical 4 with an exhaust. The muffler alone was just a little over $120 on sale when I bought it and its full stainless steel.

8 mar. 9.55 (1) (2).mp3

Quote from: Dev on October 20, 2020, 19:23If you want to know what It sounds like on a 1ZZ here is a clip. It was taken 15 years ago. I cant believe its been that long. With the 2ZZ it sounds like a big liter bike or the nastiness of a small carburetor V8 with aggressive cams. I get plenty of complements on the sound because it doesn't sound like a typical 4 with an exhaust. The muffler alone was just a little over $120 on sale when I bought it and its full stainless steel.

Wow that's just the right sound. Not too loud but gives a little bit of character to the 1zz.

Does sound good that!

Here's mine in car through 2nd gear:

Quote from: Smithy on October 20, 2020, 21:01Wow that's just the right sound. Not too loud but gives a little bit of character to the 1zz.

That is exactly how people describe it. Character.  Most exhaust for this car either sound untamed and irritating or they sound like the OEM exhaust but louder. An exhaust sounds nice if you can hear the firing rhythm.  People spend a small fortune buying exhausts like Tubi-Style for character.

 This is not my car but it has the same exhaust set up and sound just like mine currently with my 2ZZ. With the 2ZZ it is louder but it is a good loud that gets you compliments.

Here´s one of mine from the passenger seat, roof down:

8 mar. 10.00.mp3

The feed back from the gf´s is consistent; it provokes giggles and goose bumps, all lóve it. Two think it too loud though two like that.

I'm about to embark on an exhaust build, details will go here for anyone interested: https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?topic=69843.msg836735#msg836735

20201023_082902.jpg

Materials about £300 and 11kg's worth. Tons lighter than the standard setup (which is approx 28kg) and should flow better too.

Quote from: AdamR28 on October 23, 2020, 10:18Materials about £300 and 11kg's worth. Tons lighter than the standard setup (which is approx 28kg) and should flow better too.

I ended up with about the same cost and just under 10 kg´s.
The weight being where it was, it is a noticeable reduction. Especially the héavy OEM muffler.

Very small silencer?

Quote from: AdamR28 on October 23, 2020, 11:21Very small silencer?

Aluminium sleeved Arrow branded motorcycle no-silencer ;-)

Added a Hello Kitty tip worth the extra weight :-)

Quote from: AdamR28 on October 23, 2020, 10:18I'm about to embark on an exhaust build, details will go here for anyone interested: https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?topic=69843.msg836735#msg836735

20201023_082902.jpg

Materials about £300 and 11kg's worth. Tons lighter than the standard setup (which is approx 28kg) and should flow better too.

Watching as I'm interested

Looking forward to reading about this too

https://www.mr2roc.org/forum/index.php?msg=836778