The Modification Instructions for the Ford Mustang 2.3 EcoBoost Downpipe. Downpipes made the list and continue to be one of our favorite turbo engine bolt-on improvements. There are numerous advantages to installing a downpipe upgrade on the Mustang EcoBoost. We mentioned it briefly in the last article. But, this time we go over the advantages of Mustang EcoBoost downpipes in greater detail. We’ll also compare catless versus catted downpipes and go through some of the top 2.3L EcoBoost downpipe upgrades.
*Please keep in mind that this post only applies to the 2015+ Ford Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost.
What exactly is a Mustang Downpipe?
The downpipe (DP) is the section of exhaust that connects the turbocharger to the cat-back. This section of the exhaust is exclusive to turbo engines. Most turbocharged vehicles, including the Mustang 2.3L engine, employ a catalytic converter in the downpipe. Because it mounts directly to the turbo, it creates a significant restriction. A downpipe is actually nothing more than that. It features a cat and runs from the turbo to the cat-back.
Because of its proximity to the turbo, it is the most significant component of a turbo engine’s exhaust. A downpipe provides the most performance increases when compared to the remainder of the post-turbo exhaust system.
Performance of the Mustang EcoBoost Downpipe
The OEM EcoBoost downpipe’s catalytic converter (cat) aids in emission reduction. It does an excellent job at this. Sadly, cats are also very restricting, reducing power and performance. The pressure decrease from pre-turbo to post-turbo is critical to a turbo’s ability to spool. As a result, lowering back-pressure after the turbo allows for faster spool and more power. For a turbo engine, no exhaust after the turbo is actually the best exhaust.
Nevertheless, that is not a feasible plan for street cars. Catless and high-flow catted downpipe improvements come into play here. These will assist alleviate back pressure in the Mustang EcoBoost 2.3L engine and release up horsepower.
Catless versus Catted Downpipes
Catless DPs are less restrictive because they remove the cat entirely from the downpipe. As a result, a catless Mustang EcoBoost downpipe produces the most power, torque, and spool. But, catless downpipe alternatives have a few drawbacks. With a catless DP, the 2.3 EcoBoost is unlikely to pass emissions testing. They’ll also make more noise and stench than catted downpipes.
The difference in smell and sound is slight, so we wouldn’t be put off. Most people are probably most concerned about emissions. In this scenario, a catted downpipe is most likely the best option.
Alternatively, we strongly advise you to go with a catless Mustang EcoBoost downpipe. Without a doubt, they provide the best value for money. High-flow DPs are frequently double the price and provide marginally less performance. They are, nevertheless, a wonderful option for individuals looking for extra power without potentially exceeding pollution restrictions.
Advantages of Mustang EcoBoost Downpipe
The advantages of using improved downpipes on the 2.3 EcoBoost include:
- 10-20 horsepower (5-15 horsepower with cats)
- Gains in torque are comparable.
- faster turbo spool
- Reduced back pressure and EGTs
- Increased exhaust volume
The major selling point of downpipe improvements for the Ford Mustang 2.3L is going to be increased power. The advantages listed above apply to both catted and catless solutions. A catless downpipe, on the other hand, will outperform a catted DP in every way. With catless downpipes, expect to gain 10-20 wheel horsepower. Greater gains may be feasible with additional tweaks and optimization. In any case, EcoBoost power improvements with a catted downpipe will be around 5whp lower than with a catless downpipe. Torque gains will be about equivalent to power gains.
Because of the lower back-pressure, the pressure reduction will also assist the turbo spool faster. This decrease in pressure also contributes to reduced exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs). Having said that, there are certainly numerous benefits to using an improved downpipe on the 2.3L turbo Mustang.
Sounds of the 2.3L EcoBoost Catless DP
The 2.3 Mustang EcoBoost’s exhaust and engine sounds can be a contentious subject. It lacks the traditional American muscle vehicle sounds due to its modest 4-cylinder engine. A catless downpipe, on the other hand, will assist bring some more sounds out. Personal preference determines whether or not people like the sound.
In any case, a catless DP will undoubtedly give the Ford Mustang’s exhaust a deeper, more aggressive tone. It’s most noticeable when starting cold or under strong power. After the engine has warmed up, the idle will sound very similar to stock (assuming the rest of the EcoBoost exhaust is stock). Also, the DP sounds are difficult to notice while cruising normally. The point is that they provide a somewhat stronger exhaust tone without becoming annoyingly loud or invasive.
*Keeping with the pattern, high-flow DPs are noisier than stock but not as much as catless.
Improved Downpipe Alternatives for the Ford Mustang 2.3
Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s look at some of our favorite Mustang EcoBoost downpipe improvements. We’ll go over some catless and catted DP alternatives. It should be noted that this is by no means an exhaustive list. There are numerous businesses that produce aftermarket downpipes for the EcoBoost. These are just a few that we believe provide the best value for money in terms of price, quality, and performance.
1) Catless Downpipe for Mustang EcoBoost CVF
CVF is an excellent choice for 2.3L EcoBoost owners seeking for a catless DP. It’s also a 3″ downpipe, however it comes with a 2.25″ adaptor to go over the stock cat-back. They also provide a 3′′ adaptor for individuals that use an aftermarket exhaust. CVF downpipes are constructed of stainless steel. They’re also a popular option because of their proven quality and performance.
Likewise, the absence of a cat may be the main drawback for some. If you live in a state with tight emission rules, proceed with caution. Other from that, the CVF Mustang EcoBoost downpipe is an excellent pick. It’s difficult to beat the price, and it undoubtedly provides the best bang for your dollars on this list. Fortunately, for those looking for a catted option, CVF has one as well, which we’ll discuss below.
Price: $274.99
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2) Catted 3′′ EcoBoost CVF Downpipe
Fortunately, CVF offers an excellent 3′′ catted downpipe for those wishing to keep their automobiles a little cleaner in terms of emissions. The catted downpipe, like their catless alternative, is the best bang for the buck on the market, giving the best mix of price, quality, and performance.
Unless you upgrade to something like the MBRP 3′′ cat-back system, you’ll need to utilize a 2.25′′ adapter to screw this to the stock cat-back. This is the best catted system you’ll find without breaking the bank. CVF is a fantastic brand with excellent quality and fitting, making it one of our top choices for EcoBoost mods.
Price: $399
3) EcoBoost BBK Catted DP Ford Mustang
When it comes to catted downpipes, this is one of the more affordable solutions. The 3′′ BBK downpipe reduces to 2.25′′ for straightforward installation to any factory or 2.25′′ cat-back exhaust. BBK DPs provide a slight trade-off. Aluminized steel is used to make these downpipes more cheap. When compared to stainless steel, it is slightly more prone to rusting. They should still hold up well, particularly in places or nations where rust is not a major issue.
We prefer the stainless steel choices, but the BBK downpipe is still a decent value for money. It costs $499.99, which is less than most catted DP choices on the market.
Price: $499.99
Synopsis of Mustang EcoBoost Downpipe Improvements
Improved downpipes are a great mod for almost any turbo engine. The Ford Mustang 2.3L EcoBoost engine is no exception. Power improvements of 10-20whp are possible with a catless downpipe. High-flow catted DP’s should produce roughly 5 horsepower less. You’ll also notice faster turbo spool and a smoother power curve overall. Moreover, catless and catted downpipes will give the Mustang EcoBoost a somewhat deeper, more aggressive sound.
Anyone looking for a catless downpipe will like the CVF 3′′ catless downpipe’s low price, high quality, and performance. If you’re concerned about emissions, CVF also offers a catted downpipe alternative. Corsa, BBK, and numerous more firms have some excellent options as well, although they are somewhat more expensive. Regardless of your preference, Mustang EcoBoost downpipe improvements are difficult to go wrong with.
