S8 exhaust
 

I know some of you guys have wired the flaps in the exhaust open. Is this a difficult job or relative easy? Ud like to do it to mine but I'm having trouble finding out how to do it. Any help would be gratefully received.
Steve

It's easy mate, if I can do it anyone can

Have a look underneath at the back boxes and you'll see the vacuum units that operate the flaps. Shine a torch down the inner pipes on both sides and you'll see the flaps. Wedge them open and wire the linkages in that position with a piece of strong wire, job done. Probably easier with an extra pair of hands but once you take a look and understand how they're set up it'll make sense.

A8 Doc posted some pics in the relevant D3 section back in 2011 so take a look at them if it'll help.

Thank you very much, everyone on this forum are very helpful. Did it make of a difference? And sorry for the questions, would I be right on saying when in sport mode the flaps open up at all revs?

The flaps open when more exhaust gas is forced through. They are not actuated with the throttle.

It's easy to keep them open. I cable tied mine open quite easily.

I used a large jubilee clip on mine. So far so good...

I would say at full throttle there is no difference (because they would have anyway be in the open position). However, on idle or light throttle there is a notable difference. A more pronounced bass sound.

Maybe also a perceived quicker pick up too...

Out of interest does the S8 exhaust fit onto a standard A8 4.2?

Amazingly, the S8 system fits the (2004 at least) A8L! I thought it'd require adapters and welding but the only changes are the rear valance must be modified and the rearmost hangers unbolted, turned 180 degrees, remounted - and everything matches up! I've many photos I will post someday...
Tom

That's correct, the additional length is in the earlier part of the exhaust system and the rear sections are similar with the exception you've noted for mounting. I had a modified exhaust on my A8L when I got it which was sold to another member and it went straight into his S8 with no issues.