After talking to several friends and checking numerous sources I decided to install a B&B Fabrication Tri-Flow cat-back exhaust system. I ordered it from Bavarian Autosports and they had it drop-shipped directly from B&B. Although it would be several days before I could get around to installing the system, I just couldn't help myself when it arrived, I had to open the box and take a look. Beautiful! All polished stainless steel and first-class hardware. I could hardly wait.

Saturday morning I finally got the ti, "Stubby", on a lift and removed the stock exhaust system. Two bolts at the back of the catalytic converter and three rubber-mounted hangers and it was out-of-there. Now for all that nice shiny stainless steel. The B&B system comes in two pieces rather than one like the stock system. I put everything up there loosely like the instructions tell you, wiggled it around to get the best fit, and then started tightening. First the connection at the back of the cat just a little and then the clamp in front of the muffler. Back and forth, back and forth. This is when I first noticed the problem. The system wasn't lined up quite straight with the cat and was forcing it to the left, almost against the left side of the driveshaft tunnel. At the same time, the exhaust tip was hard against the right side of the cutout in the rear valance. I loosened everything up, wiggled it all around, and tried again - same problem. Plus I had a pretty good leak at the connection at the back of the cat. Raising the car back up, I tightened the connection at the back of the cat some more. Better but it still leaked and the fit problem was even worse.

I decided to take the car to a muffler shop I've had do some work on my Euro 635 and see if they could tweek the system and fix the problem. They said they might be able to make it better, but could make no promises, and if they messed it up I probably wouldn't be able to return it.

There was only one solution. I had them remove the B&B system and build a new one from scratch. This new system bolts and hangs just like the original (and the B&B), sounds great, and doesn't leak. They used 2 1/2 inch aluminized steel pipe, a Dynamax Super Turbo muffler, and a Megs angled tip. It won't last forever like stainless steel, but with a 3 year guarantee and at about 1/3 the price of the B&B, I'm more than satisfied. Now the car sounds the way it should and seems to be quicker.

If you want an outstanding exhaust system for your 318ti and can get to the Dallas/Fort Worth area, try Kinney's Muffler in Bedford, Texas. I'm sure you'll be as happy as I am!

John Harbolt

Additional references:
Installing a SuperSprint exhaust