Got my downpipe!

Got my 200-cell cat downpipe for the Volvo from VAST. Pre-sale experience was great - he answered all of my questions and concerns about fitment and timeline. Once purchased kept me up to date on when it would arrive and got it to me in a timely manner.

The craftsmanship is excellent. What I like most though is that, unlike the factory downpipe, it keeps the catalytic converter away from the driveshaft center bearing, eliminating the problem with heat damage to the bearing. Another nice feature is being two-piece which makes servicing the driveshaft a breeze.

Didn't run into any problems installing - although I was replacing the entire exhaust system so I didn't have to worry about rusted parts and was able to test-fit everything off of the car before putting it on. It did make me realize again how leaky my engine is. I'm going to have to do a lot of re-sealing this summer.

All in all I'm glad I decided to drop the money to do it and invest in the Volvo's health to keep it running nicely. It was a hefty amount to spend on a "free" car that's worth $4000 on a good day, but the driving experience is much improved and is better than going out and spending money on a new used car with it's own handful of issues. The downpipe was $750 and the rest of the exhaust components brought the total to around $1250 altogether.

I'd post a video of it on the car, but it's hard to see being underneath, and it's remarkably quiet - which is what I wanted in a daily driver.