I wish I had a video camera handy. I did the washer mod right before I installed a set of Magnaflow axle backs.

I started it up took it for a nice ride, WOT etc.

I then put the Magnaflows on. Is sounds the same. I am not *****ting you. The mid-muffler and the resonators must act as about 90% of the sound killers.

The washer mod is deep like the Magnas, on the highway they sound the same, no drone and at WOT, I think I like the Washers better.

I though this was a crap mod when I first read it, but I am now a believer.

wanna sell your magnaflows? :D

wanna sell your magnaflows? :D

They went right back in the box and right back to the store.

So the g8 guys are doing the washer mod too heh!

i never did it with my gto, but alotta people talkded of it

so how many washers did you use?

I say save the money you'd spend on the washers and just drill some holes in the exhaust.

It's much easier to remove four bolts than to patch up holes in your exhaust.

It took around 15 minutes and I did not even need to jack the car up.

so how many washers did you use?

2 thick ones, one on each side of the exhaust.

Not to sound like an ass but no way in HELL I'm doing a ghetto washer mod to my car. Sure it may sound better then stock but to anyone close by they should be able to tell the sound is coming from under the car and not the bumper indicating a leak. And thats where the problems would come in, first off an exhaust leak under the car isn't good for you or any occupents who happen to be sucking in the exhaust fumes. You do know they have been known to kill people right? ;) Get stuck in traffc back up and this could be not so good for anyone in the car. Secondly I don't know about where you live but around here a cop will pull you over in a second if he thinks your exhaust is leaking and nail you with a fix it ticket.

Seriously man I'm not trying to start anythin just saying this washer mod thing is a bad idea IMHO.

Not to sound like an ass but no way in HELL I'm doing a ghetto washer mod to my car. Sure it may sound better then stock but to anyone close by they should be able to tell the sound is coming from under the car and not the bumper indicating a leak. And thats where the problems would come in, first off an exhaust leak under the car isn't good for you or any occupents who happen to be sucking in the exhaust fumes. You do know they have been known to kill people right? ;) Get stuck in traffc back up and this could be not so good for anyone in the car. Secondly I don't know about where you live but around here a cop will pull you over in a second if he thinks your exhaust is leaking and nail you with a fix it ticket.

Seriously man I'm not trying to start anythin just saying this washer mod thing is a bad idea IMHO.

Yes, the washer mod is pretty ghetto but:

1. It does not sound like a leak as the OP indicates.
2. You're not at risk unless you have large holes in your floorboard. (even then the leak is so tiny that it fully dissipates). The "leak" is only about 24" from the tips. (right near the rear wheel well where many vehicles exhausts actually terminate).
3. If a cop's going to bust you for the washer mod then he'll also bust you for any aftermarket exhaust. I can't even imagine a cop crawling under your car looking for the 1/16" gap in your muffler flange.

Yes, the washer mod is pretty ghetto but:

1. It does not sound like a leak as the OP indicates.
2. You're not at risk unless you have large holes in your floorboard. (even then the leak is so tiny that it fully dissipates). The "leak" is only about 24" from the tips. (right near the rear wheel well where many vehicles exhausts actually terminate).
3. If a cop's going to bust you for the washer mod then he'll also bust you for any aftermarket exhaust. I can't even imagine a cop crawling under your car looking for the 1/16" gap in your muffler flange.


In order...:D
1. GOOD!
2. IDK man have you ever sat in trafic for over an hour without moving? It can be BAD around the MD, DC area.
3. I've had them stop me cause they thought it was too loud.

Like I said I wasn't hating just saying. Its good too know it doesn't sound as ghetto as I thought it would and by looking under the car it probly would be hard to tell if it was a leak or the mufflers themselves.

The more I hear about this, the more I gotta try it at least lol. I've read a variety of ways to approach this with using one washer on one bolt, and not the other. Most recommended you remove the gasket, did you remove the gasket as well when you performed your mod?

I only used the washer on one bolt on each side. As I stated in the original thread, the sounds is the same. It does not sounds like an exhaust leak, due to the mid muffler and the resonators. The only reason a person would use an axle back is for sound. The washer mod, cost zero and can be done/undone in less than 5 minuets.

Right after I did the mod. I remote started it while sitting 3 feet from the tips. You can not tell where is coming from.

Like I said before I was also skeptical. But I am impressed. :driving:

you guys are going to make me try this...aren't you? my only concern is i haven't done any of this before and don't want to really screw something up =P

Same here....so whats involved..... From what I can tell all i need is a socket wrench and use existing washers?

You'll need washers.

What I did, was try it on one muffler. I took the gasket out, and put in a washer on each bolt. It sounded good. I liked the idea of the "leak" facing backwards only instead of all the way around, so I cut about 40% out of each gasket, and had the gap facing the back of the car. It sounded ok. Not really any leakage sounding, just a bit more aggressive exhaust note, but not as loud as just one with just washers.

So, then, I ordered 4 gaskets from GMPD. I cut the same 40% out of two of them, and stacked them on the gapped gaskets already in there, and put the other two in the parts bin if I decided I didn't like it.

The sound got louder, still doesn't sound like a leak, and has a burble at idle and startup that I've gotten compliments on.

It's much easier to remove four bolts than to patch up holes in your exhaust.

Guess I should have put a smiley in there somewhere, like this. :rolleyes:

Same here....so whats involved..... From what I can tell all i need is a socket wrench and use existing washers?

That's it, you don't even need to bring the car off the ground. I just slipped the washer in on the lower sides to the "leak" will face the ground.

Not to sound like an ass but no way in HELL I'm doing a ghetto washer mod to my car.

LMAO!!!

P.S. I'm not against whatever you guys want to do, just saying the comment was funny!

P.P.S. I am, however, doing the Ghetto Magnaflow 16887 mod whenever it gets here!

I did it earlier, and I must say that I am happily surprised how it sounds, Not too loud, but gives it more of a rumble. The wife really liked it.

LMAO!!!

P.S. I'm not against whatever you guys want to do, just saying the comment was funny!

P.P.S. I am, however, doing the Ghetto Magnaflow 16887 mod whenever it gets here!


Do the washer mod before you do the 16887s and give your honest opinion. That is why I did it. Just to see and save me $400.

I've been doing the washer mod for several years on different cars. The best of all was my GTO. I like it on my GT as well but have noticed the dreaded "drone" around 2k rpm, that I never had on my Goat. I always drive in manual or sport mode so I just avoid that range. I was wondering if you guys have noticed the drone also?

Same drone but my 93 superchips re-tune has toned it down, i tried driving my car without the washer mod and it was killing not hearing rumble from the exhaust.

Can someone take an actual picture of this, I'm pretty sure I understand everything I just want to see an actual picture. I was interested in doing this awhile ago but the only graphic I found explaining it was just a drawing and it didn't really make any sense to me.

Nevermind I found some pictures.

link?

http://www.g8board.com/forums/showthread.php?t=7054&highlight=washer+mod

It's on the second or third page.

I was very skeptical on this mod also. I decided to give it a shot and was amazed! I have CAI, Custom Tune, and removed resonators and mid muffler. The sound is great at idle and even better at WOT. I was one that thought it was stupid at first too, but you don't know until you give it a try. I will post sound clips of stock vs. 1 washer. I did this in 10 minutes last weekend. I put if back to stock to see if the X Pipe made a difference.

Do the washer mod before you do the 16887s and give your honest opinion. That is why I did it. Just to see and save me $400.
And when moisture gets inside the mufflers because that gap acts like a vacuum to pull it in, you'll be spending $400 for new mufflers when they rust out.

Hu...?

And when moisture gets inside the mufflers because that gap acts like a vacuum to pull it in, you'll be spending $400 for new mufflers when they rust out.


Have you ever seen condensation come spewing out of exhaust before? Same thing. Water sits in there all day.

And when moisture gets inside the mufflers because that gap acts like a vacuum to pull it in, you'll be spending $400 for new mufflers when they rust out.

Has anyone used this mod during the winter, with snow? Moisture?

I also asked this in the other post, has anyone noticed "sightly leaks" from under the car when it is cold out?

Have you ever seen condensation come spewing out of exhaust before? Same thing. Water sits in there all day.
That's only at startup and it's gone once the pipes and mufflers warm up. The gap will be pulling a lot of moisture in constantly when you're driving in the rain.

It snowed 8 inches over night and i was bored so I did this mod.

First I started with a washer on both bolts, this sounded great at idle, but the drone was loud, not unbearable, but I am married and you know the wives......

So I came back and pulled a Bill Engvall, heres your sign.

"now your not gonna understand this, but that's gonna be hot"...

Anyway I now did the 1/2 mond (washer on top bolt only), this is not as loud, but as stated earlier, no drone. Sounds great at start up. For less than $1, i will try this. If, and when, my mufflers fail, I will spend the $500+ for an axle back. These motors need to be heard, so now I can hear it.

Oh yeah, and to answer my own question, ther is no "sightly exhaust", and it does not seem to get wet from snow or road water.

Just did the washer mod! Removed the flange and added two washers in the top and bottom bolts... Sounds great!

That's only at startup and it's gone once the pipes and mufflers warm up. The gap will be pulling a lot of moisture in constantly when you're driving in the rain.


When it is cold out, you will have condensation all day at the mufflers. You can drive 100 miles and still spew out water.

Either way, the exhaust gets wet, either from the inside or out. That's why is rusts. :driving:

When it's cold outside you see a cloud of steam coming out because the exhaust is hotter than the air. Water IS NOT a byproduct of gasoline combustion, so there's no way water is constantly spewing out.

When it's cold outside you see a cloud of steam coming out because the exhaust is hotter than the air. Water IS NOT a byproduct of gasoline combustion, so there's no way water is constantly spewing out.

C8H18 + 12.5 O2 ---> 9 H2O + 8 CO2

H2O is water...

Granted that this doesn't apply 100% in the real world with imperfect fuels and different octane levels, but generally, H2O is a byproduct of gasoline combustion.:)

I've always seen Crown Vics and similar vehicles constantly spewing water...especially cop cars that are sitting for a while. I had a 2004 Crown Vic that had so much water in the exhaust after sitting for a while that on a downward slope you could hear it sloshing around if you moved at all...and then being forced out at WOT. :)

That's only at startup and it's gone once the pipes and mufflers warm up. The gap will be pulling a lot of moisture in constantly when you're driving in the rain.

A 1/16" gap pulling in "lots of moisture" when the exhaust has positive pressure??

This is silly:bs:

NO! "your!" wrong

Condensation in my stock exhaust!
After 5 years I will have to replace them with aftermarket axle backs!

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/148/388345925_503cb1c158_o.jpg

For all you naysayers........Here's what I did.
I took off the gasket. I put 1 washer on the bottom bolt. Tighten both upper and lower bolts until they are tight. You CANNOT even see the gap, at least laying on the ground. (On a lift, maybe so.)

You CANNOT tell that the sound isn't coming out of your tailpipes. And it DOES NOT sound like a exhaust leak. It sounds like a nice exhaust. Period.

Try it. Here's even a quicker tip. Take the bottom bolt clear out, loosen the top bolt about 1/2. push up on the exhaust so you can stick the washer in and put the bottom bolt back in. Tighen it up. It takes 10 minutes laying on the ground, no jacks, no nothing. And you don't even have to take all the bolts out.

You still feel the pressure coming out of the tips, the "leak" is behind the rear wheels, almost at rear facsia, so NO I'm not worried about killing anyone.

Then try it without the gasket, or with 1 washer on the top and bottom (too loud for me)

If you don't like it, put it back in 10 minutes.

TRY IT....... Especially before you go spend a bunch of money!!

DONE.

Dave

When it's cold outside you see a cloud of steam coming out because the exhaust is hotter than the air. Water IS NOT a byproduct of gasoline combustion, so there's no way water is constantly spewing out.


Funny, because sitting in my cruiser all day, you should see the water dripping out of the pipes all day.

No ***** water is not a by product of combustion, no one said that. But condensation forms when air is at 2 different temps. Your car makes condensation all day, unless the air is around 220 degrees or hotter.

So yes, you spew water out all day, every day, more when the air is colder.

I did this yesterday after much debate... i left the gasket in and put one washer on the bottom bolt only. While it did make a difference i decided to do two washers on the bottom and i absolutely love the sound!

Oh well, I guess we can call this the HomeDepot Mod!

Having just put on the magnaflow street series this past Saturday I have to say I love it. The washer/home depot mod to me is a rig job and is deliberatly creating an exhaust leak however minimal. IMO, i would not do this to any of my cars let alone one I paid $30k for. As they say, to each there own I guess.

I did this today with the washer just on the bottom. Sounds much better and it was 50 cents! Little annoying at 2k rpm but that's just me, but not bad at all! It was so easy that i did it in a parking garage with some pliers...

I did this today with the washer just on the bottom. Sounds much better and it was 50 cents! Little annoying at 2k rpm but that's just me, but not bad at all! It was so easy that i did it in a parking garage with some pliers...

You can also use one fender washer for each side. A fender washer is about half the thickness of a regular washer. It sounds good at start up but there's no drone.

However I think I'll get the Corsa system because I want burble. The washer doesn't do this (nor does Magnaflow)

i did washers in each bolt and like it,wife says its too louad. i said try to get used to it and well see what happens.i may end up putting smaller washers in it.

i just got my g8 today and got bored and did it, works just fine, ill do full exhaust at some point

Washer Mod is hilarious. To each his own, but in my opinion it is absolutely ghetto. If you wanna do a mod for just sound, the just remove your mufflers all together and just run straight pipes out. It may be $60 more than washers, but atleast you don't have a leak making fake exhaust sounds.

Straight pipes sound terrible.

Notice how the only people bashing the little washer mod are:

1) People who have not tried it
2) People that sell exhaust
3) People who have spent hundreds on a catback / axleback

I had the magnaflow cat back. It sounded great.

I sold it.

I am running the "big nuts" mod now, I have 1/2" thick nuts slid over the bolts instead of washers leaving about a 1/2" gap. It is very loud. It also sounds very good, there is absolutely no indication of an exhaust leak. Just sounds like loud mufflers.

However, as said, I can, in less than 10 minutes laying on the ground beside the car, change out the big nuts for smaller washers, or for the stock gaskets, and have a fully customizable sound. And it was free, I just scrounged up nuts and washers from the garage.

Most (I would say almost all) of the exhaust gas still comes out of the tips, seems like mostly sound pressure is coming out of the flange gap.

PLEASE, if you are considering an aftermarket exhaust just for the exhaust's sound, try the washer mod first.

I sold the magnaflow cat back because I planned on getting an X pipe put in place of the stock resonators and running straight pipes. However, the car sounds like crap with straight pipes in place of the mufflers, even with the resonators in place. I am sticking with the big nuts mod for now. :)

GEE8GEETEE, I'm right near you if you would like to check out my big nuts.... :)

Notice how the only people bashing the little washer mod are:

1) People who have not tried it
2) People that sell exhaust
3) People who have spent hundreds on a catback / axleback

I had the magnaflow cat back. It sounded great.

I sold it.

I am running the "big nuts" mod now, I have 1/2" thick nuts slid over the bolts instead of washers leaving about a 1/2" gap. It is very loud. It also sounds very good, there is absolutely no indication of an exhaust leak. Just sounds like loud mufflers.

However, as said, I can, in less than 10 minutes laying on the ground beside the car, change out the big nuts for smaller washers, or for the stock gaskets, and have a fully customizable sound. And it was free, I just scrounged up nuts and washers from the garage.

Most (I would say almost all) of the exhaust gas still comes out of the tips, seems like mostly sound pressure is coming out of the flange gap.

PLEASE, if you are considering an aftermarket exhaust just for the exhaust's sound, try the washer mod first.

I sold the magnaflow cat back because I planned on getting an X pipe put in place of the stock resonators and running straight pipes. However, the car sounds like crap with straight pipes in place of the mufflers, even with the resonators in place. I am sticking with the big nuts mod for now. :)


Well said.

Notice how the only people bashing the little washer mod are:

1) People who have not tried it
2) People that sell exhaust
3) People who have spent hundreds on a catback / axleback

I had the magnaflow cat back. It sounded great.

I sold it.

I am running the "big nuts" mod now, I have 1/2" thick nuts slid over the bolts instead of washers leaving about a 1/2" gap. It is very loud. It also sounds very good, there is absolutely no indication of an exhaust leak. Just sounds like loud mufflers.

However, as said, I can, in less than 10 minutes laying on the ground beside the car, change out the big nuts for smaller washers, or for the stock gaskets, and have a fully customizable sound. And it was free, I just scrounged up nuts and washers from the garage.

Most (I would say almost all) of the exhaust gas still comes out of the tips, seems like mostly sound pressure is coming out of the flange gap.

PLEASE, if you are considering an aftermarket exhaust just for the exhaust's sound, try the washer mod first.

I sold the magnaflow cat back because I planned on getting an X pipe put in place of the stock resonators and running straight pipes. However, the car sounds like crap with straight pipes in place of the mufflers, even with the resonators in place. I am sticking with the big nuts mod for now. :)
:iagree::iagree:

Exhaust leak = exhaust leak, regardless if it is accidental or intentional. Give that the G8 has a trunk pass-through as a feature (center console in back seat), all you need is one small hole in the trunk and Voila! You have carbon monoxide in your car.

But hey, it will sound good while you're dying!

:ohsnap1:

Yup. All that exhaust gas is going to find the 'little hole' in the trunk, displace it's way into the positive pressure inside the car from the HVAC system, then again find it's way through the rear deck lid / trunk passthrough and instead of them being cycled out of the cabin through the exit vents it will travel directly into our sinuses and kill us all. It won't simply blow out the wheel wells (right where the flanges are) or just dissipate under the trunk in the wide open space. That's crazy talk.

Now that you mention it I am no longer going to sit in traffic, because the deadly exhaust pipes of the cars in front and beside me are not behind my bumper and those fumes are all coming right for my red blood cells as well. Actually, even if I'm not stuck in traffic the car in front of me is also killing me since his exhaust is pouring out in front of me and right into the fresh air intake in my cowling. I am just going to stop driving altogether because I don't want to die.

If borla sold a similar style baffle kit you would all worship it.

OMG mustang guys are so retards!! they have their side exhaust pointing to the driver and passenger side window!! OH NOES ALL DIE!!!
http://image.hotrod.com/f/9266093/113_68678_Large_Cactus_Jack+Roush_Stage_III_Mustan g+Side_Exhaust_View.jpg


So is Mercedes!!
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/19/2005_silver_Mercedes_SLR_passenger_side_exhaust.JP G


and OMG dont say you get a exhaust leak on a turbo, it will go straight into your cabin!!!! AND ALL US DIES KRAZY OH NOES!!

http://www.hppmotorsports.com/images/tt03cobra/ttkit02.jpg

Exhaust leak = exhaust leak, regardless if it is accidental or intentional. Give that the G8 has a trunk pass-through as a feature (center console in back seat), all you need is one small hole in the trunk and Voila! You have carbon monoxide in your car.

But hey, it will sound good while you're dying!

I've never laughed so hard in my life. If your trunk has holes in it you'll get way more "potential" exhaust comming in from the stock tips then the tiny 1/16" gap in the flange. That tiny leak will be totally engulfed with air within a few inches of the flange!!

Yes, the washer mod is "ghetto" but it's foolish to think it'll do any harm and it actually does sound pretty good.

Tell you what guys, I'll contact supertrapp, have them design a set of their baffles that fit in the flange, charge you $350 for them, then you can all feel better about not being so "ghetto".

http://store.supertrapp.com/images/9-supertrapp-discs.jpg

I think I may give the washers a go when I get it back from the dealer.

DONT DO IT IT'S A DEATH WISH YOU ARE GOING TO DIIIIIIEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!





Try it. You'll like it.

Man, I'm ghetto and didn't even know it! cool......

I'm even more ghetto than you know. I keep in my glove box a bag and a ratchet. In it are....

4 thicker washers
4 thinner washers

If I want to REALLY Ghetto, I use 2 thick ones on each side. When that gets too much, I do a thin one top and bottom. And then there's my normal "Ride Low Ghetto" where I just use a thin one on the bottom.

I know if you spent $500 or $1000 on a exhaust then you're never gonna admit that this is viable. But it is. To me it's no differnet than putting on Axlebacks, you are changing the sound. You can't even tell when you hold your hand over the pipes, I think it changes the resonance or something more than anything.

And the whole leak thing hurting someone is ridiculous.

All I know, is my car sounds like what it has in it, a Great American pushrod V8.
It should have come from the factory sounding like this.

"Ghetto Dave"

OK that's it, I'm trying it. Anybody who has done this want to fire off what washer size/thickness they were using? The less work on my part, the better lol. I've gotta try it at least. God knows what I've got laying around, I'd rather just run to Home Depot and spend my 50 cents.

OK that's it, I'm trying it. Anybody who has done this want to fire off what washer size/thickness they were using? The less work on my part, the better lol. I've gotta try it at least. God knows what I've got laying around, I'd rather just run to Home Depot and spend my 50 cents.

I'd start conservative. Go get 2 fender washers. They're 1/16" thick vs. std. washers that are 1/8" thick. Leave the top of the flange closed but insert a washer in only the bottom of each flange. That'll give a nice start up sound and no drone.

Keep adjusting the size of the gap to get the loudness you want. However with loudness comes drone.

I agree, the thin ones are perfect for me. I notice NO drone with the 1/16" thick ones.

:hail:http://marylandspeed.com/marylandspeed-ajustable-exhaust-leak-kit-aka-the-washer-mod-md-leak-p-2261.html:burnout:

I think the kits at Maryland Speed are on back order!:nuts:

Ok I would love to try this out. I hate loud exhaust. I want it really quiet, just a little bit more of sound would be great. but I dont know what everyone is talking about! where is this bolt? pictures anyone!?

I have to say I think it sounds like a great idea and I have axle-backs.
If I still had my OE mufflers on, I certainly would try it!

But of course my Magnaflow mufflers are stainless (polished?) and look very trick from the back. SO TAKE THAT!



lol

:hail:http://marylandspeed.com/marylandspeed-ajustable-exhaust-leak-kit-aka-the-washer-mod-md-leak-p-2261.html:burnout:


Wull, I hate to brake it to yuh, but doze won't werk on duh G8. Doze are fer the GTO, man! :p

I have to say I think it sounds like a great idea and I have axle-backs.
If I still had my OE mufflers on, I certainly would try it!

But of course my Magnaflow mufflers are stainless (polished?) and look very trick from the back. SO TAKE THAT!



lol

Tht's it, I'm going to get some stainless steel washers........:driving::driving:
Then I'll be "Double Ghetto"

:hail:http://marylandspeed.com/marylandspeed-ajustable-exhaust-leak-kit-aka-the-washer-mod-md-leak-p-2261.html:burnout:


You have to been ****ting me... that's awsome :patriot:

Wull, I hate to brake it to yuh, but doze won't werk on duh G8. Doze are fer the GTO, man! :p

Shuuunnn... the non believer.



Check out the bottom note:
Note: Single washer pictured. Kit includes 50.

That's 12 for each bolt, so that's how you get the right sound. Guess my 2 1/8 one's on each bolt aren't cuttin it

That maryland speed link is hilarious. :)

For the guy wanting to try it, I've used everything from a single fender washer on the bottom stud only (barely noticable but definitely sounds better) to the 1/2" think giant nuts I have on there now (loud as hell). It is not a lot of work, you can reach the flange bolts from the side of the car (lying on the ground) with a 3/8 rachet, a 3" extention and a 15mm socket.

k I used the skinniest washer I had on both of the bottom bolts and let me say this sounds perfect, like it should stock. Its got a little bit of murmer which I like, no hum or drone. at WOT its not to loud, just right. I think i might add a larger one to the top one when i hit up the track!

Just finished up the mod and took it out for a run. Holy hell I haven't smiled this much since I first drove the car. Sick, just sick. I went fairly tame and just grabbed some washers I had laying around and put one on each bottom bolt (and removed the gaskets). They are 1/16th thick.

Damn pleased I tried this out. Now it sounds right. If I die of CO2 poisoning or my muffler rusts off in a few years because of this, it's totally worth it. Not that I anticipate either, but if you're looking for better sound out of your car, not a bad way to start. Call me ghetto, doesn't bother me.

Of course my inspection is up this month...what are the chances they catch this? Just curious...

BRING ON THE BELIEVERS!!!!!!!!!! DEFEND THE FAITH OF THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE WASHERS MY NEW BROTHERS!!!!!!!!!!!

:)

lol.

Oh, and Eric GT, I really do miss how the polished mufflers looked from the back of the car, I noticed immediately when I put the factory ones back on how much more plain it looked. So yes, you got us there.... :)

Slim to none on the inspection question, but if you're worried about it (or they complain) it's a quick fix to get the sticker.

No hard feelings guys, but I couldn't resist.

http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv24/IcePickFreak/washermod-roni.jpg

lol awesome. I love it!

I couldn't resist, tried it today with 1 washer top and bottom, sounded great till I got on the interstate and AFM kicked in, does have a drone from 65-75 but not too bad. Will try 1/2 tomorrow.
:driving:

Yeah I haven't tried mine at highway speeds yet with 1/2 washer mod, but with AFM engaged at around 35-40mph (1400 RPM roughly)...sounded fine. I imagine highway shouldn't be too bad since I'm usually at about 1600-1800 RPM.

The start up and take offs are like music to my ears.

How big are the bolts? I tried a 5/8" wrench and it didn't fit and a 9/16" was too small...metric?

They are 15mm.

They are 15mm.
Cool. Just did it with 2 washers on the bottom bolt. Sounds pretty cool! The only thing I don't like is the exhaust condensation leaking out on the ground. Not sure if I'm going to leave it.

EDIT: 2 washers (the guy at the hardware store told me they were 1/16" each) and not much drone. If you were listening to the radio at 16 or higher you wouldn't ever even hear it. I wonder how this compares to some of the axle back systems?

Cool. Just did it with 2 washers on the bottom bolt. Sounds pretty cool! The only thing I don't like is the exhaust condensation leaking out on the ground. Not sure if I'm going to leave it.

EDIT: 2 washers (the guy at the hardware store told me they were 1/16" each) and not much drone. If you were listening to the radio at 16 or higher you wouldn't ever even hear it. I wonder how this compares to some of the axle back systems?

Water will just come out of the tail pipes instead. Look at the OP for the compare.

lol. Washer Mod.

I was skeptical..I figured what the hell its 10 mins, 1 15mm socket and ratchet and two washers I had laying around.

I am a believer now...car sounds way better, you can hear the V8 and doesn't sound like a damn G6.

Yes its ghetto. No I am not worried about my exhaust rusting or anything.

It sounds much nicer....

But I still feel dirty and ghetto...but the washers are stayin'

:burnout: I went to 1/2 today, no gasket and 1 washer on the bottom, 3/8 flat washer 1/16 thick, love it!!
GHETTO-FABULOUS
:wink2:

It's funny, there'sbeen like 4 forums just like this where people argue about the washer MOD and a bunch of people go out and try it. I was one of them.

Nobody is talking about what it does to power. I would like to test it on a dyno before and after---my guess is it would kill a couple of HP. Every type of exhaust leak I have ever heard of hurts CFM. Because it breaks up the flow. So even a pen size leak can hurt CFM of the exhaust gases. This also happens because an exhaust leak cools the exhaust which then slows down the CFM. The exhaust pulsates with the strokes of the engine---so it actually sucks cool outside air into the exhaust stream slowing the flow.

Liar







...J/k Any thoughts

It sounds faster!:driving:

Nobody is talking about what it does to power. I would like to test it on a dyno before and after---my guess is it would kill a couple of HP. Every type of exhaust leak I have ever heard of hurts CFM. Because it breaks up the flow. So even a pen size leak can hurt CFM of the exhaust gases. This also happens because an exhaust leak cools the exhaust which then slows down the CFM. The exhaust pulsates with the strokes of the engine---so it actually sucks cool outside air into the exhaust stream slowing the flow.

+1...I was thinking about the same thing (losing power, I'm too dumb about the rest of what you said).

I guess it depends on the power loss. If it was minimal (aka 1-3HP), I could probably sacrifice it for the nice sound seeing as I would never personally experience 1-3HP loss in normal driving. Should I become a drag strip freak, I could always just spend 10 minutes and put it back to normal.

Would be good to know how it effects performance though.

to be 100% honest first night i got the car i did it

Too quiet for the factory now it actualy sounds like it has a v8 lol

It has a V8?

Would be good to know how it effects performance though.

Its negligible. If anything you'd gain (1-2 hp), the mufflers are a restriction. The reason people spend big $$ on headers, X-pipe and high flowing axlebacks..is for more flow, more flow = more power.

According to some dyno tests the difference between LT header and catted x-pipes with OEM axlebacks and with no axelbacks at all is about 2 HP.

Yeah I am still interested in putting in some LT headers w/cats which would probably give me the sound I am looking for without the washer mod, but at this point I've got enough cash for a few washers :)

Plus I need to enjoy my tune and intake for a little while. Couldn't do much with the snow these past few months.

who would have thought some washers on an exhaust system would have had so many comments.i like it my self.how many cars did we see years ago with duel mufflers and no tail pipes hanging there underneith.

Ok, I'm one of the doubters. Didn't need to remove bolts, just loosen, insert washer, tighten down. Here's pictures. I haven't started her up yet, but I'm about to go for a little drive. I'll post when I get back this afternoon.
http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm227/srg963/block%20off%20panel/P4030392.jpg
I wasn't able to use the washers I had on hand, they were too small. I'm going to pick up larger diameter ones and redo on the bottom bolts.

Get some to fit around the bolt, then you can't even tell they are on there. I went with one washer initially, but two on the bottom bolt was the ticket for me. Now I can hear the exhaust and feel it even with the radio on!

The deep rumble is quite nice. I know someone put out some great videos of the sound of the washer mod which did a good job...but your going to need a professional mic kit to pick up the growl this ads. Even those videos don't do it justice IMO, but probably the next best thing to actually trying it out.

Go ahead, you know you want to lol. Now the questions is, do I have the balls to put it in my signature....?

Ok, I'm one of the doubters. Didn't need to remove bolts, just loosen, insert washer, tighten down. Here's pictures. I haven't started her up yet, but I'm about to go for a little drive. I'll post when I get back this afternoon.
http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm227/srg963/block%20off%20panel/P4030392.jpg
http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm227/srg963/block%20off%20panel/P4030393.jpg
I wasn't able to use the washers I had on hand, they were too small. I'm going to pick up larger diameter ones and redo on the bottom bolts.



LOL welcome to the darkside, don't think SC will be able handle that, might need a dyno tune now.

SRG963, if and when you decide you're going to leave the washer there, remove the bolt and hang the washer around it. It wlll likely fall out after the gasket compresses causing a rattle. Also if it falls out, the bolt will lose a little tension, and might loosen and come out completely. Bad.

SRG963, if and when you decide you're going to leave the washer there, remove the bolt and hang the washer around it. It wlll likely fall out after the gasket compresses causing a rattle. Also if it falls out, the bolt will lose a little tension, and might loosen and come out completely. Bad.

Yup, I can say that the washer mod is worth the price. Its a major improvement in sound over stock.

I inserted the washers the first way just to see if I liked it. I did, so I bought 1/16" x 3/8" lock washers from Lowes, 2 bucks for 5, and put 1 on each side between the flanges. Works like a charm, I can now hear my car start up, lol

Yeah that's Ultra Ghetto there SRG! lol

hahaha I'm loving it

EDIT: 100th post...:driving:

Yeah that's Ultra Ghetto there SRG! lol

I agree it's the cheap route, but cheap is "In" these days, ROFL

It does sound much better, and I stood next to the car at idle and didn't smell any exhaust.

Here's the finished picture
http://i297.photobucket.com/albums/mm227/srg963/block%20off%20panel/P4030387.jpg

so you leave the gasket in?

Well for 10minute worth of work and from washers i have laying around i will have to try this. I dont wanna do exhaust on this car at all i had a gtp before this all done up loud as hell now with my g8gt i just wanna keep stock exhaust wise. But do wish it sounded a little bit better so now that ive read this thread and another one and got to read every ones reviews on it im gonna try it. Its something easy to do and could try different things with it 1, 2, 3 washers ect: till you find what you like. Its pissing rain here right now so cant go out and try this but i will was the rains stops. Ill post back my review on this mod.

Well for 10minute worth of work and from washers i have laying around i will have to try this. I dont wanna do exhaust on this car at all i had a gtp before this all done up loud as hell now with my g8gt i just wanna keep stock exhaust wise. But do wish it sounded a little bit better so now that ive read this thread and another one and got to read every ones reviews on it im gonna try it. Its something easy to do and could try different things with it 1, 2, 3 washers ect: till you find what you like. Its pissing rain here right now so cant go out and try this but i will was the rains stops. Ill post back my review on this mod.

I felt the same exact way.

I found one washer to be the sound I like.

so you leave the gasket in?

I did just for simplicity sakes.

lol i just went and did this, i must say its pretty cool! i did two 1/16 in each bolt and removed the gaskets. pretty sweet on the low end. im going to take it on the freeway and see how bad the drone is! ah well for two bucks, i need to say that its worth it! try it out!

:) :)

I took my gasket out...
no reason you leave it in...its not doing anything lol

Has anyone that did the washer mod noticed if there's any popping when you let off the throttle at high rpm's in manual mode? With my Borla turbo mufflers there's no popping at all, it just comes down real clean.

I'll try it out and let you know. No popping when I was using manual mode, but I didn't get much above 4000 RPM. Bet that Borla roars...love their sound.

I get popping if i drop the gear too low for the RPM, kinda like a breaking the engine with the transmission

yup same here, sounds badass! i read something about people worrying about the bushing right above the flanges, anything to worry about?

Evidently there's no popping with the washer mod, that's cool.

The Borla's sounds good, here's a video if you want to hear them:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a375/DonRome/th_P1030154.jpg (http://s15.photobucket.com/albums/a375/DonRome/?action=view&current=P1030154.flv)

because of this thread, i just went and did the washer mod... lmao... never thought i'd do something like this...

first go at it... removed all bolts and gaskets...

put 1 washer in top bolt, and 2 washers in bottom bolt on both flanges (no gaskets)

and OH MY GOD... i did NOT expect it to make that big of a difference... i just got done doing this mod maybe 20 minutes ago (took me 10 minutes)... and just got back home...

the sound is AMAZING, how it should have sounded from the factory, you can actually hear the V8 rumble now... sounds great IMO...

i may go 3 washers on bottom bolt... i think i want it a little louder. no obnoxious drone/popping that i've heard so far, and i pulled it down into 1st gear at 37MPH (~5000RPM) and didn't notice any obnoxious backfiring/popping (there was a little bit of burble/popping... but sounded like any aftermarket exhaust IMO)

lol, this thread is really changing minds, huh?

Totally. If it ever stops raining here I may toy with putting a washer on the top bolts as well just for kicks.

Borla sounds great BTW.

Evidently there's no popping with the washer mod, that's cool.

The Borla's sounds good, here's a video if you want to hear them:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a375/DonRome/th_P1030154.jpg (http://s15.photobucket.com/albums/a375/DonRome/?action=view&current=P1030154.flv)



I do get a nice pop or two on the MOD, as i said before from the drop when the RPM is too high.

GEE8GEETEE, I'm right near you if you would like to check out my big nuts.... :)


Hey, you need to hang some Truck Nutz on the back of your car to go with the BNM.....the Big Nut Mod!

A little popping is ok as long as it's not too loud, then it get to be obnoxious.

I got two on the bottom, but I might have to go to something more. I want it louder! If I'm going to drive far on the freeway though I'll put it back to normal for silent cruising. This is actually a really cool mod!

Even though I love my Magnaflow 16887, I'm not against the washer mod.

If it works for you, then you'll most definitely have enough change left over for a CAI and some Shell V-power. Or, you'll finally be able to quit skimping with Netflix, and take your girlfriend to a real movie theater, going all out with a $19.95 bucket-o-popcorn with some greasy butter, and two big Cokes. (I think you can put the movie stuff on Stretch-Pay.)

Seriously, sound is sound, so I think it's cool. Looks like the recession is going to get deeper for the aftermarket exhaust people. However, maybe Lowe's and Home Depot will find themselves having a banner year..........at least on the washer aisle!

I got two on the bottom, but I might have to go to something more.
Two on the top!

Two on the top!
I know you think it's crazy Dr. but it is actually pretty awesome!

I think I'll go 1 on top, 3 on bottom!

That'll work too, 2+2=3+1 :D

That'll work too, 2+2=3+1 :D
I wouldn't want too many on the top because TeH VaPorZz may get into my lungs and kill me! But at least my car will sound good while I'm being exfixiated ! :wiggle:

Your muffs sound good btw.

The Borla's weren't as cheap as the washer mod but for $240 I can't complain. Plus he gave me a Spectre CAI for $60. So I figure I got over $600 worth of parts for half the cost!

That's a sweet deal on the Borlas. I would almost pay that just to have the tips. :)

He had the stock G8 tips and the stock axleback pipes & flanges welded on them. The Borla's are on the right, my stock mufflers are on the left.

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a375/DonRome/P1030142.jpg

this picture really illustrates how massive our stock mufflers are...must be a fairly significant weight savings just by swapping out for an aftermarket muffler.

Went to 4 washers on the bottom. Drone is pretty good, but exhaust sounds great. Went back to 2 on the bottom and it sounds like nothing again....damn!

Just imagine if you went to 0...you'd think you were driving a Prius!

Try 2 top & bottom, besides I think it's better that the flanges bolt up evenly. With different amounts of washers top & bottom it bolts up unevenly, which isn't good if you ask me.

I closed it back up to run AFM with the superchips 93 tune, for about a week. It was weird hearing the car crank and then.... nothing.

Try 2 top & bottom, besides I think it's better that the flanges bolt up evenly. With different amounts of washers top & bottom it bolts up unevenly, which isn't good if you ask me.


Yeah if you crank down on the nuts hard enough with an unequal number on the top and bottom you could bend the flange.

Yeah if you crank down on the nuts hard enough with an unequal number on the top and bottom you could bend the flange.

You are causing a leak, why would you torque down the bolts hard enough to bend the flange? LOL

Use a Lock Washer, and with a little pressure from a hand tool, you should be good.

:hail:http://marylandspeed.com/marylandspeed-ajustable-exhaust-leak-kit-aka-the-washer-mod-md-leak-p-2261.html:burnout:
LMFAO!!!!!!! :laugh:

LMFAO!!!!!!! :laugh:

Sale Price: $19.95 "Normally $75.00, you save $55.05"
Must resist clicking on "add to cart"!!

Because if they're just snug they could back out and you could lose a muffler. Though granted you would hear it getting louder as your bolts loosened up.

You are causing a leak, why would you torque down the bolts hard enough to bend the flange? LOL

Use a Lock Washer, and with a little pressure from a hand tool, you should be good.

Not to sound like an ass but no way in HELL I'm doing a ghetto washer mod to my car. Sure it may sound better then stock but to anyone close by they should be able to tell the sound is coming from under the car and not the bumper indicating a leak. And thats where the problems would come in, first off an exhaust leak under the car isn't good for you or any occupents who happen to be sucking in the exhaust fumes. You do know they have been known to kill people right? ;) Get stuck in traffc back up and this could be not so good for anyone in the car. Secondly I don't know about where you live but around here a cop will pull you over in a second if he thinks your exhaust is leaking and nail you with a fix it ticket.

Seriously man I'm not trying to start anythin just saying this washer mod thing is a bad idea IMHO.


I'll chime in as well. I drive around with LT headers and dumped exhaust on my 99 Trans Am.... Im still alive. Of coarse, I usually have the T-Tops off:driving:

I love seeing the hater's posts in other treads..............:wink2:

hahaha

Just did this yesterday two on bottom only sounds good on startup some drone but I absolutley dont mind it I may try and go down to one on bottom only. We'll see how long it last my wife is due to have our son may 10th see how he likes it and make sure the CO wont kill him on the ride home :nuts:

I drive my 9 month daughter around in mine. I'm quite confident you have nothing to worry about. It's those people with holes in their mufflers idling in front of you that should be more concerning.

Congrats in advance!

you guys must be smoking crack cause i did this and it sounds like an exhaust leak. and it drones bad

LMAO!!!!! That's what I said a long time ago, but a lot of people still do the washer mod.

you guys must be smoking crack cause i did this and it sounds like an exhaust leak. and it drones bad

If you think the WM drones bad, don't buy an aftermarket exhaust...

John I get no drone from my Borla axlebacks, it all depends on what system you get.

you guys must be smoking crack cause i did this and it sounds like an exhaust leak. and it drones bad

Did you do this with your stock exhaust or with your headers and cats? I can't comment on how it sounds with aftermarket headers or cats, but on a stock system, it sounds pretty good to me. Drone depends on how aggressive you go with the washers.

I'd love to compare my washer mod side by side with an aftermarket exhaust on a G8. Tough to do that on the web. For now, ignorance is bliss. :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6r0tUHo-esc

Yeah most cameras just can't capture the true sound unless you're using professional equipment. I gotta hear it in person. On Camera, the Mag and washer mod sound the same.

You guys are insane, I LOVE IT!!! I will be trying this over the weekend. I'll admit, I couldn't help but laugh when I started reading this but after listening to the difference I gotta try it. I just hope it doesn't come to us hanging coffee cans out the back! :)

People have been doing this for years. I did the by-pass on my Vette.

People just get pissed after spending $1500 for sound and 10hp at the most. :driving:

Best part about it, it is adjustable and you can go back to stock for free. No money loss if you don't like it.

Yup...I actually went back to 1 washer on each bolt this evening. Got a long trip next week and would prefer not to listen to the drone that 2 washers gave me...boy it is A LOT quieter lol. I can't imagine what it would (or better yet, wouldn't) sound like stock.

Ok, so I did the washer mod, with some doubts I might add. All I can say is HOLY COW!!! This is the perfect sounding exhaust to my ears! I used three washers on both bolts totaling about 3/16 of an inch gap. The sounds is just amazing. Exhaust manufactorers, this is the sound I am looking for! Nice deep tone with some cackle when you let off the fun pedal. The only concern I have with running washers on both bolts is the hot exhaust hitting the sway bar bushing. The bushing is located directly above the top bolt of the exhaust. I will have to get some gaskets and cut out the bottom half to divert the hot exhaust downwards and out of harms way. Other than that I absolutely love the sound! Now that is what I call thinkin with your dipstick Jimmy! :)

I actually did not use washer on the bolts. I opened up the exhaust, I put a expandable wall anchor, folded it up and bolted it back down. It only allows air to escape on the bottom part of the flange.

I can adjust the "wedge" for more or less sound.

Atta boy, Screw! The first "tunable" washer mod, here forth referred to as the"SCREW MOD"!!!!!!! That's the most exciting development in this topic since the "0/0" variation! Thanks from BigRed!

I had the washer mod and just ditched it for some Magnaflow mufflers. I had a shop just weld them in place of the factory mufflers and weld on the tips (I think the same tips as with the axle-back kit), saved me about $200. I think inside the car the Magnaflows might actually be quieter than the washer mod, but outside the car the Magnaflow sounds better/louder and it sounds better/louder through the rev range. I had two washers on the bottom, none on top. Sorry, I think the washer mod is a genius and a great way to get cheapr sound but now I don't feel as stupid telling people what I did to my exhaust. I've been having the resonators removed with an X-pipe in place and still have ithat. And before anyone asks- no drone. Also, It felt like I may have lost a little power with the washers but gained it back and then some with the Magnaflows, this could just be in my head to help rationalize spending the money.

yeah washers aren't going to hinder performance. Not by my track numbers anyways. Glad to hear the Mag's worked out for you...it would have really sucked to spend that and have it sound the same, or worse!

Corsa Cat Back is different animal though. I had Washer mod before I installed the Corsa

Yeah most cameras just can't capture the true sound unless you're using professional equipment. I gotta hear it in person. On Camera, the Mag and washer mod sound the same.

Corsa Cat Back is different animal though. I had Washer mod before I installed the Corsa

How does the Corsa compare to the Washer...in detail please :)

Here you go.
Outside 4000 rpm revs
H2vR4sIP76M

Inside garage 4000 rpm revs
i_lcN3OgVC0

How does the Corsa compare to the Washer...in detail please :)

I did this mod this morning and LOVE it. I have flowmasters and inside the cabin I had a bad drone but now it's gone even the wife agrees. She also pointed out that it sounds alot better when I leave.

Just did this mod too,2 washers on each bolt.I like it,sounds rumbly and deep at idle.My only gripe is the droning when accelerating at part throttle in the 30-50mph range.Down low and up high it sounds great and once you're up to speed and cruising around town,not much drone at all.Haven't tried the highway yet though.

Has anyone here run the washer mod with the middle muffler and resonators deleted,but still with stock axlebacks? How would that sound?

Here you go.
Outside 4000 rpm revs
H2vR4sIP76M

Inside garage 4000 rpm revs
i_lcN3OgVC0

Yeah I've heard it on video...sounds good. But for $1300, I need to hear it in person. That's a lot of cash so it has to sound WAAAAAAYYY better than my 50 cent washer mod. I'm certain it sounds good and if I had cash and it bolt up to some ARH headers...I might consider it. It does bolt on to the Kooks, so who knows. Would love to hear it in person though...

Just did this mod too,2 washers on each bolt.I like it,sounds rumbly and deep at idle.My only gripe is the droning when accelerating at part throttle in the 30-50mph range.Down low and up high it sounds great and once you're up to speed and cruising around town,not much drone at all.Haven't tried the highway yet though.

It drone's pretty good once you exceed 68 mph on the highway. Does sound damn good when you get on it. If you do one washer on each bolt, it dramatically reduces the drone and still has some voice in it (especially vs stock). I'm keeping the single washer on each bolt through the winter, and then when summer comes around, I'll probably go back to two for kicks. I don't do much highway driving and I like to let the brothers know I'm coming when driving through the ghetto. ;)

It drone's pretty good once you exceed 68 mph on the highway

Try some straight through axle backs. I had Pypes (which other than the drone were awesome). I only have one washer (bottom) and I don't get really any drone at all...just a little more noise at idle and wot.

Try some straight through axle backs. I had Pypes (which other than the drone were awesome). I only have one washer (bottom) and I don't get really any drone at all...just a little more noise at idle and wot.
They can also look at the "almost drone free" thread. I have straight through pipes and have no drone.

That with or without AFM?

I just did the washer mod today, and all I can tell you is it is amazingly ****ty. It is going back to stock tomorrow.

It sounds so bad, I now have a headache and the wife wont get in the car.

I will wait to buy a good exhaust system.

I just did the washer mod today, and all I can tell you is it is amazingly ****ty. It is going back to stock tomorrow.

It sounds so bad, I now have a headache and the wife wont get in the car.

I will wait to buy a good exhaust system.

Are you talking about the drone inside the cabin. If so you're gonna get te same thing with an aftermarket exhaust unless you get corsa which has hardly any drone. But drone in general comes with having a loud exhaust. Just my .02 cents. Mine doesn't sound bad with the washer mod but I also have aftermarket mufflers they just aren't loud enough for my blood.

I just did the washer mod today, and all I can tell you is it is amazingly ****ty. It is going back to stock tomorrow.

It sounds so bad, I now have a headache and the wife wont get in the car.

I will wait to buy a good exhaust system.

right? thats what I say. i guess if youve never had a quality exhaust in a v8 you wouldnt know this sounds ****ty and anything to hear the v8 sound more sounds good. which is understandable considering how f***ing quiet these cars are from the factory totally sucks