Cars / e36 / Engine / Installing an Aftermarket E36 Catback Exhaust (Stromung)

Installing an Aftermarket E36 Catback Exhaust (Stromung)

Article by: billycuth

Applies to: BMW e36 models.

Well, I know this is simple, but as with any mod, you run into a little modifying here and there, or you are left to come up with some sort of game-plan.

Let me preface this DIY with one simple notion.

Make sure your car is not going to move while it is off the ground.

I used ramps and jack stands for this project.

The old exhaust (different views):

I have the dual cats….

Here is where the game plan comes into effect.

The new Stromung came with no installation instructions, which often guide you as to what you should do and when.

Well, I started by removing the rear brackets first.

DO NOT do that.

Makes the other 4 bolts VERY difficult to get back on!

I ended up re-tightening the rear brackets until I got the other four bolts off.

Here are the bolts you need to remove…

Rear bracket (remove last!).

Four bolts attaching the exhaust to the catalytic converters. . .

After fully removing all bolts, (only need to loosen the rear brackets, not completely removed – which helps installing the new exhaust quickly).

You should be able to wiggle the exhaust free and end up with a nice empty space like this.  .  .

Next, install the new exhaust.

I chose to cut the box out around the exhaust so that I could slide it under the car without scratching it.

If you leave the rear brackets installed, you won’t need any tools yet.

The reinstall went so fast, I didn’t have time for new pics…

Slide the 2 pipes into the receiving end of the catalytic converters first.

One pipe has an extension that allows you to slip the new exhaust pipe over it to hold it in place (before re-securing with new bolts).

Now slip the 2 muffler ties in with the existing rear brackets.

Then tighten these bolts.

Now, finish by securing the 4 bolts at the other end.

You’re done! Here is some comparison pics before the install, and some after install pics. . .

I need new hardware for my setup, but it will have to wait till tomorrow because it is midnight now!

Now that you see how easy it is, save yourself the money and BUY ONE!!!

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