CLOSEOUT - Larini Section
2 - $500.00 while supplies last! (Does not include section
1)
The Euro E46 M3 has 4 separate
exhaust components: the headers, a front section 1 incorporating
cats, a center section 2 incorporating a mid-resonator, and a rear
muffler. The Euro spec M3 rasps as stock, albeit not as badly as
the US spec M3. The US E46 M3, bound by higher emission standards,
incorporates the following changes:
- The converters are moved from the
Section 1 position into the headers
- An additional resonator and plain
pipework make up the Section 1
- The section 2 and rear muffler
remain unchanged.
This arrangement allows the exhaust
to heat up faster to reduce cold start emissions, but unfortunately
robs power. Furthermore, this arrangement massively increases the
raspy tone of the M3.
SECTION 1 AND 2 REPLACEMENT
Changing some or all of the
components in the exhaust system will increase performance.
However, the dilemma for US vehicle tuners is a) selecting a
performance section 1 and 2 that will give power and torque gains,
while complimenting any possible future upgrade to Euro headers b)
selecting a performance section 1 and 2 that will not further
amplify the M3’s rasp and c) selecting a performance section 1 and
2 that will significantly reduce the M3’s rasp without excessively
silencing the car, or causing drone or vibration.
Finally, the wait is over. Larini
Systems has developed the only Section 1 + 2 that will remove the
M3’s rasp, improve sound quality, and give noticeable power and
torque gains on either a US or Euro exhaust spec M3. The Larini
Sports Sections 1 and 2 have been designed and developed to work as
a unit, independently of each other, or to compliment other
modifications (such as Euro spec Larini GT Sports Cats).
Furthermore, they perform different tasks depending on the US/Euro
header set-up they are mated to.
Please Note: The OE section 1’s,
section 2 and rear muffler are all physically interchangeable
between Euro and US spec E46 M3’s. The same applies when fitting
Larini components, allowing a fully modular exhaust
system.
Rasp Removal (US exhaust
spec)
Root Cause: Stock engine tone
Additional Cause: OE headers-cats & OE front section 1
combination
Amplifier: OE center section 2
Removal: To eliminate the rasp, only the Larini Sports Section 1
needs to be fitted
Rasp Removal (Euro exhaust
spec)
Cause: Stock engine tone
Amplifier: OE center section 2
Removal: To eliminate the rasp, only the Larini ‘Sports’ Section 2
needs to be fitted
Larini Sports/Anti-Rasp Section 1 (US Exhaust Spec):
The
Larini Sports Section 1 is a direct replacement for the OE US
section 1 - the main contributor of the rasp when coupled with US
headers. Using octave band frequency monitoring techniques we have
developed a Sports Section 1 that will actually eliminate the
excessively raspy and tinny sound now standard on the M3. Once
fitted, the pure note and tone of the engine are significantly
tuned and improved, for a much sharper, aggressive
sound.
Nevertheless, power and torque gains
have not been overlooked. Enhancing power from within this area
involves carefully tuning the Section 1 to work with the headers
and catalysts. When exhaust gas exits the cylinder it produces
sound/pressure waves that travel up and down the exhaust system, if
these S/P waves can be controlled correctly, they can be harnessed
to draw extra gas from the cylinder and so make the engine more
efficient.
Hence, the Larini Sports Section 1
incorporates two super-performance, lightweight caged-pipe
components that work with the cats. As soon as the gas reaches
these expanded sections, the S/P wave creates a reverse pressure
pulse. As this wave hits the back of the valve it bounces back and
causes a suction pulse that helps pull out more gas the next time
the valve opens. A higher exhaust suction-pressure allows for more
efficient removal of the exhaust gases from the engine. This
results in a cleaner, more efficient burn - leading to enhanced
engine performance.
Accelerated gas-flow also minimizes
engine-bay temperatures by dissipating heat more effectively. This
is particularly important for improved performance, as cooler
operating temperatures boost engine efficiency further. Unlike OE,
there are no flow stifling crimped or flattened areas. Increasing
the internal flow area with larger diameter pipework allows for a
further improvement of the flow-rate and velocity of the exhaust
gasses, guaranteeing a more free-revving engine with improved
throttle response.
This product delivers a similar
power increase as an alternative pipework-only section 1, but
offers a noticeable torque gain as backpressure levels are
modulated optimally. This arrangement is the performance ideal for
vehicles with US spec headers. Acoustically, there will be no
excessive bass, rasp amplification, drone or vibration issues. Once
fitted, no modifications will be required to the engine management
system.
Larini Sports Section 1* (Euro Exhaust Spec):
For vehicles equipped with OE Euro or aftermarket performance
headers, the mandrel bent Larini Sports Section 1 can be used as an
alternative for the massively restrictive OE Euro catalyzed section
1, providing exhaust gases with zero flow restriction. Lambda
Bosses are located in the correct positions for the Euro Lambda
probes (US cars required to extend stock sensors or replace with
Euro versions).
This product delivers a similar
power increase as an alternative pipework-only section 1, while
offering a significant torque gain as a vital balance between lower
backpressure level and flow rate is ensured for optimal
performance. One can expect much sharper throttle response from a
now free-revving engine. Operating temperatures are reduced too, as
accelerated gas-flow minimizes engine-bay temperatures by
dissipating heat more effectively, while protecting the manifolds
from damage. This is particularly important for improved
performance, as cooler temperatures boost engine
efficiency.
Acoustically, the muffling effect
provided by the bulky stock Euro cats is eliminated, subtly
enhancing volume levels, while the note and tone of the engine are
significantly tuned and improved for a much sharper, aggressive
sound without any excessive drone or vibration issues.
*Please Note: A Larini Section 1,
when coupled with Euro headers, is intended for non-highway use
only in America, as US law for many areas requires fully
functioning catalysts to be fitted at all times.
Larini Sports/Anti-Rasp Section 2 (US/Euro Exhaust
Spec):
The Larini Sports Section 2 is a direct replacement for the OE
US/Euro section 2, which contains an H-pipe plus a mid-resonator –
an amplifier of the rasp. Air flows from an area of high pressure
to an area of low pressure. The bigger the pressure differential
the more air will flow (and faster). This is a physical law. The OE
H-Pipe and mid-resonator are cost effective attempts at merging the
gasses between the two parallel exhaust center pipes to create
these differences in pressure, which lead to an increase in
mid-range torque.
However, enhancing power from within
this area involves pressure tuning the section 2 by varying the
length and type of the merge junctions. Hence, the Larini Sports
Section 2 utilizes two Y-pipes and a light weight caged-pipe
component, connected by two expansion tubes, to create the optimal
pressure differentials necessary to speed up the flow of exhaust
gasses. Additionally, increasing the internal flow area with larger
diameter pipework allows for a further improvement of the flow-rate
and velocity of the exhaust gasses.
This careful tuning of gas-flow
velocity rates and backpressure levels, via manipulation of
internal diameters, the merge points and expansion points, produces
the ultimate effect - expelled exhaust gasses are now rapidly
sucked away from the engine, increasing efficiency and boosting
performance. This product offers an Hp and significant torque gain
as gas outflow rates are manipulated more effectively. Once fitted
you will feel the difference.
Acoustically, there will be no
excessive bass, rasp amplification, drone or vibration issues,
which may be experienced by alternative pipework-only section 2s
(as with lengthy pipe work the amplitude of the lower-frequency
sound is typically increased). Once fitted, a Larini Sports Section
2 lifts the volume, makes it deeper at low rpm, adding a subtle,
aggressive tone and then lifts the pitch at high rpm, so when
matched with throttle opening it develops a beautiful sound under
acceleration. It really is just one of the most satisfying tuned
exhaust notes.
Please Note: Unlike alternative
aftermarket section 2’s, the Larini unit is supplied with a fitted
heat shield, so no broken stud issues will arise.
KEY FEATURES – Larini ‘Sports/Anti-Rasp’ Section 1 +
2
- Delivers an extra 6 Hp combined
approximately
- Noticeable torque gain
- Eliminates the E46 M3
rasp
- Vastly freer flowing in comparison
to the OE sections 1 and 2
- Lightweight construction parameters
throughout
- No excessive drone or vibration
issues
- Engineered for optimal flow
efficiency, using complex caged-pipe components
- No adverse technical implications,
while guaranteeing a more free-revving engine with improved
throttle response
- Mandrel bent pipe work allows a
constant internal diameter, maintaining a smooth, constant gas
flow
- Constructed using aircraft grade
T.316 & T.304 Austenitic Stainless Steel
- 100% Tig welding
construction
- Correctly positioned,
heat-distortion resistant, CNC-machined stainless steel Lambda
bosses and heat probe connections
- Precision, laser cut, mounting
flanges and brackets, for easy fit and removal
SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION
- T.304/316 stainless steel's ability
to resist corrosion and maintain strength at temperature extremes
makes it the only material suitable for a Larini Sports Section 1 +
2
- The laser-cut manufacturing process
ensures alpha-quality repeatability and reproducibility -
guaranteeing that flange #1000 is as accurate and leak-proof as
flange #1
- Euro Lambda probe positions remain
unchanged from the original Euro equipment, allowing for the future
installation of the Euro OBD II (On Board Diagnostics II) system
probes for Euro header conversions – for off-road use
only
- Unique thick-walled, stainless
steel Lambda bosses can withstand temperatures in excess of 1600°C,
and will not distort. Conversely, regular thin-walled bosses expand
and cause the threads to bind, rendering future removal of the
Lambda probes near impossible
- Advanced construction techniques,
dedicated fixed-jig equipment, and 100% Tig-welding ensures maximum
durability and a perfect fit
VISIBLE QUALITY
- Pipework, bosses, Lambda probe
connections, flanges and caged-pipe components are all Mirror
Finish polished
- The improved quality of a Larini
Sports Section 1+ 2 is immediately noticeable as soon as it is
removed from its box
EASE OF FIT
- Larini Sports Section 1+ 2 fits
perfectly to the US or Euro headers, mounting points, and rear
muffler, requiring no special procedures or modifications to
fit
CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
From David Andrade of Lorsch, Armed
Forces Europe/Middle East/Canada on 8/30/2005:
I have been searching the chat rooms
and listening to many different exhaust clips and I have to say
that this exhaust (Larini Club Sport) coupled with the Section 1
and Section 2 is the sweetest sounding exhaust I have heard yet.
Neil and the guys in London have hit their signature note right
target. I wanted a sporty alternative to the crappy stock exhaust.
I can say that the car even feels like it has a bit more torque. I
would recommend this to anyone thinking of doing this
upgrade.
Please note: While the Larini
Sports/Anti-Rasp Sections 1 and 2 are dedicated sports components,
maximum rasp removal capability may be compromised when fitted
individually to vehicles equipped with aftermarket superchargers
and pipework-only exhaust sections as these products may further
exaggerate the M3’s raspy tone.
FAQ (US Exhaust
Spec):
Q. Why is the US spec OE section 1
the main contributor to the rasp?
A. The Euro section 1 incorporates 2 catalysts. The US spec section
1 doesn’t (as the cats are fitted into the headers). In their place
the factory installed a resonator on one side and a straight pipe
on the other side. With now lengthy pipe work, the amplitude of the
lower-frequency sound is increased. As the M3 engine has a
naturally raspy tone anyway, this arrangement serves to create even
more rasp. Where the Euro M3 has a mild raspy tone, the US spec M3
rasps aggressively throughout the rev range.
Q. What happens if I fit a Larini
Section 1 only to a stock US exhaust spec M3, in terms of the
rasp?
A. It will eliminate the rasp.
Q. What happens if I fit a Larini
Section 2 only to a stock US exhaust spec M3, in terms of the
rasp?
A. It will cease amplification of the rasp, unlike the OE section
2, but a raspy tone will still remain. Because, the main
contributor to the rasp, the OE section 1, is still fitted. Swap
out the OE section 1 only with the Larini Section 1 to eliminate
the source of the rasp.
Q. Will an aftermarket pipework-only
Section 1 eliminate all the rasp?
A. Lengthy straight pipework by the factory helped increase the
rasp in the first place. So, fitting a pipework-only section 1,
with double the length of straight pipe compared to the OE US
section 1, naturally will not help matters. Aftermarket
pipework-only section 1’s were actually originally developed as
de-cat pipes for the Euro M3’s. Nevertheless, if the Larini Section
2 were fitted also, there would be a reduction in the overall
amplification of the rasp.
Q. Will an aftermarket pipework-only
Section 2 eliminate all the rasp?
A. No, and drone or vibration may become an issue, particularly on
modified cars.
Q. I have a massively modified US
E46 M3. If I fit the Larini Section 1, will any trace of rasp
remain?
A. Modifications such as aftermarket superchargers and
pipework-only exhaust sections may further exaggerate the M3’s
raspy tone. In this rare instance, the Larini Section 1 plus the
Larini Section 2 may also be required, to reduce amplification of
any remaining raspy tone.
Q. Will I feel a positive difference
in performance with a Larini Sports Section 1 + 2 fitted to my US
M3?
A. Yes.
FAQ (Euro Exhaust Spec):
Q. If I fit OE Euro headers and
cats, will they eliminate the rasp on my US M3?
A. The OE Euro set-up will massively reduce the rasp, but a small
amount or raspy engine tone will remain (as even the Euro spec M3’s
rasp slightly). To eliminate all trace of the rasp the section 2
area must be looked at.
Q. Why is the OE section 2 the main
contributor to the raspy sound?
A. The Euro section 1 incorporates 2 catalysts. The US spec section
1 doesn’t (as the cats are fitted into the headers). So, the Euro
spec M3 doesn’t rasp as badly as the US version. The rasp you hear
on the Euro M3 is the mild raspy tone of the engine being massively
amplified by the OE center section 2. To eliminate all noticeable
trace of the rasp the section 2 area must be looked at.
Q. What happens if I fit a Larini
Section 2 only to an OE Euro exhaust spec M3, in terms of the
rasp?
A. It will eliminate the rasp, without reducing overall volume
levels.
Q. What happens if I fit a Larini
Section 1 only to an OE Euro exhaust spec M3, in terms of the
rasp?
A. It will not eliminate the mild raspy tone of the engine.
Instead, swap out the OE section 2 only with the Larini Section 2
to eliminate the raspy tone.
Q. Is a Larini Section 1 a
road-legal alternative to the Euro catalysts on a Euro exhaust spec
M3?
A. No. Law in both the United States and Europe requires fully
functioning catalysts to be fitted to all road going M3’s at all
times.
Q. Is a Larini Section 1 an off-road
use alternative to the Euro catalysts on a Euro exhaust spec
M3?
A. Yes, it offers a physical bolt-on fit.
Q. Will an aftermarket pipework-only
section 2 eliminate all the rasp?
A. No, and drone or vibration may become an issue, particularly on
modified cars.
Q. Will an aftermarket pipework-only
section 1 eliminate all the rasp?
A. No. Excessively lengthy pipework in the section 1 area typically
exaggerates the rasp.
Q. I have Euro headers fitted,
de-cat pipes (pipework-only section 1), and a pipework-only section
2. Will fitting of the Larini Section 2 only completely eliminate
any rasp, as it does on Euro-catalyzed M3’s?
A. Pipework-only exhaust sections may further exaggerate the M3’s
raspy tone. As always the Larini Section 2 will cease amplification
of any rasp (and on a catalyzed M3 that would be enough to
eliminate the rasp completely). But in this quest for total rasp
removal, fitting of the Larini GT Sports Cats (highway use), or the
Larini Section 1 (off-road use), may also be necessary.
Q. I have Euro headers fitted,
de-cat pipes (pipework-only section 1) and a pipework-only section
2. Will fitting of the Larini Section 1 only completely eliminate
any rasp?
A. Pipework-only exhaust sections may further exaggerate the M3’s
raspy tone. In this case, the Larini Section 1 will massively
reduce any rasp to nearer stock Euro levels. In this quest for
total rasp removal, fitting of the Larini Section 2, which will
cease amplification of any rasp, may also be necessary.
Q. I have a massively modified Euro
exhaust spec E46 M3. Which Larini components will eliminate any
rasp?
A. Modifications such as aftermarket superchargers and
pipework-only exhaust sections may further exaggerate the M3’s
raspy tone. Fitting of an alternative aftermarket section 2 with a
large mid-silencer will only lessen the rasp by silencing the
overall volume of the vehicle. Therefore the Larini Section 2 plus
Larini GT Sports Cats (highway use), or the Larini Section 1
(off-road use), may be necessary, particularly if the car has been
de-catted.
Q. Will I feel a positive difference
in performance with a Larini Sports Section 2 fitted to my Euro
exhaust spec M3?
A. Yes.
This article is copyrighted © 2005 Larini Systems. All Rights
Reserved.
All content included herein, is solely the property of Larini
Systems, and is protected by United Kingdom and international
copyright laws. You may therefore not extract, use, copy,
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content of this article for utilization in any commercial purpose,
without Larini Systems’ express written prior
consent.
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