TL;DR - I'm being a wuss and I am worried the resonator delete in this car may cause probs. Have you had any?


I was just about to take the plunge and remove the resonator, when I took it to my usual shop. The shop isn't cheap, but they really do everything amazingly well. They don't cut corners and are generally very highly regarded in the community...so when they said removing the resonator wouldn't be easy I had to wonder what was going on.

So according to them, the exhaust pipe exiting the down pipe goes into an oval shape before it hits the resonator. They said they didn't feel comfortable welding in a length of tube there without first removing the exhaust and spending the time getting the tube bent into the proper shape. Now I know plenty of MINI drivers have had this done at chain exhaust stores, so I'm wondering if anyone has had holes develop or seen something come loose? I've done this modification before in other cars, so I'm not too worried about it, just curious.

 

I had it done at a generic local (non-chain) muffler shop and I have not noticed any exhaust leaks in a year since having it done. No bending and they used galvanized over stainless; albeit not my first choice, but figured this was temporary until I got a proper exhaust which I've never done to this day. I kept my resonator, however, in case I wanted to put it back in and lately I've kind of been thinking about it. I really wish I could pick and choose when I want it quiet or louder by the day/my mood. I do get a lot of compliments on the sound though.

 

Thanks for the reply Brandon. I think I'll go for it and just revert back if I develop a hole or something. Of course, there's always the Akrapovič option at that point as well :D

 

I have done it to my JCW about 8 months ago at Muffler Masters. They did a good job and only cost $80 or so if memory is right.
No issues or holes. Did also keep resonator if want to go back to stock. But the noise / sound has grown on me. ;-)

 

I agree with Jack$0n - I had my resonator off for a year now. Went to a local shop, paid $100, but it was the cheapest around, and they did it within 10 minutes. I kept my resonator in case I want to go back, but I love the sound and no problems (knock on wood).

 

Lots of info here: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-no-video.html