Fitting BiModal system to VF SSV

[Number55]

Hi Guys. Has anyone done this?
I am not really interested in the xforce varex, even though as it would be fully electric and easy to install. Im more interested in the HSV or Defillipo Systems. I currently have a 3inch system from a forrum sponsor that isnt as good as i hoped. Looking to different options......

[Number55]

Oh i didnt mention this is for an VF SSV wagon. So the vac lines and a solenoid or alternative will have to be installed

[Wonky]

HM do a bimodal system I've heard on a couple of HSVs - sounds very good!! :thumbsup:

[Number55]

I like ur taste in noise wonks. .. i will look into it

[swingtan]

FWIW, the SSV probably won't have the BCM / ECM control interfaces to work the HSV Bi-Modal. However, after market systems will come with their own controllers sow that should be fine. I was going to look at setting up the STD. HSV ones to work on TPS instead of RPM though, but as yet haven;t had time to really look at it.

[vxcalais]

Harrop sell a bi modal retro fit exhaust with a controller

[Number55]

I see HM have a rev based kit for the bimodal. I would like to check them out. I only want to open and close when i want it though

[Plenty]

FWIW, the SSV probably won't have the BCM / ECM control interfaces to work the HSV Bi-Modal. However, after market systems will come with their own controllers sow that should be fine. I was going to look at setting up the STD. HSV ones to work on TPS instead of RPM though, but as yet haven;t had time to really look at it.

Could be way off but don't they operate from the vacuum pressure at certain revs? So there is actually nothing electronic on them? Only referencing the factory set up not aftermarket.

[Number55]

The VF is rpm actuated from the engine vac and can be switched at ant time also from the dash

[Teal]

Be interested to see how you go, just got a VF SSV wagon myself. :thumbsup:

[BlownVR]

I bought a pair of used HSV bimodal mufflers and made them work easily enough. You will need a 3-port solenoid valve so you can dump vacuum from the muffler side of the line when the valve is closed. A boost control solenoid works perfectly for this. I bought one from a wrecker that came off a Mitsubishi Evo. You will need about 7m of vacuum line from memory, a couple of t-fittings and a check valve. The reason for the check valve is that vacuum fluctuates at idle, causing the actuators in the mufflers to flutter slightly. The check valve eliminates this fluctuation, giving a nice strong vacuum that firmly holds the actuators closed against spring pressure. I posted the part number and price for the HSV check valve in the part numbers thread, although you might find something cheaper on ebay or an aquarium shop. The HSV vacuum line comes from a spare port at the back of the manifold, but this it difficult to get to. I fitted a T into the brake booster hose and then a reducer. There is a blank grommet in the firewall near the steering column, and you can run the line under the plastic trim on the door sills. Or alternatively under the car if you can't be bothered with all that.

If you want rpm switching, Jaycar do a frequency switch module for $35. You could connect this to one of the ignition coils and set it for whatever rpm you like. I have a 3-position switch on the dash - open, closed, and rpm. Haven't got around to wiring up the rpm module yet.

The HSV bimodals are not real loud when open, compared with the aftermarket ones. Have had Varex and they were much louder when open. I've also heard HMs and they were loud too.

From my experience you will soon get tired of having to switch the mufflers open. Having an auto option is the way to go, with manual override when you want it.

[BlownVR]

Could be way off but don't they operate from the vacuum pressure at certain revs? So there is actually nothing electronic on them? Only referencing the factory set up not aftermarket.

The factory setup uses a solenoid to switch the vacuum on and off. I have run mine as you suggest, without a solenoid, and it works well, opening when you plant your foot. However you have the issue with fluttering actuators at idle that I mentioned in my post above. I didn't hear it in the car but from outside it sounds crap, like the exhaust is vibrating against something. Once you add the check valve to stop this, the actuators will no longer open when manifold vacuum drops as you floor it.

[QIKMIK]

I have the HM system installed on my MY09 Senator Sig. The sound is great. Mine is a 2.5" as I didn't want it too loud. I'm told there isn't much power difference between 2.5" and 3" (thanks HPF/OzGarage video) but the 3" will be a bit louder. It is nice and quiet (read: stock) on the highway and sounds like all hell breaks loose at about 4000rpm. I get the slight flutter at idle mentioned above but I reckon that makes it sound all the better; a bit more mechanical and less sterile if you will. If the vacuum lines come off, the system is a bit droney at low rpm however as it is designed for bi-modal operation, this is not a problem with valves closed.

Combined with HM's 1 7/8" headers and 200cpi cats, this is a well made, great sounding system.

Mick

[Number55]

Wow thanks for info guys. I will price every thing up when everyone gets back from xmas.
BlownVR sounds like ur all over it!

[adr8]

Di Filippo also make a bi modal exhaust which is worth considering, I have the 3" non-bi modal exhaust and it gets lots of positive comments from people who have heard mine.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAlo6Uf5h5g

[Wonky]

That's a useless video IMO!! The whole point about bimodals is that they're quiet when required but sound like a V8 when you get up them but there's nothing I saw on that video to demonstrate the difference or even let people know if open or closed. I can guess which it is but to me the whole video is pointless as a demonstration of a bimodal system.............. :nutkick:

[adr8]

Wonky you are just jealous it sounds better than your KPM system :stick:

Found another video, it doesn't let you know when it is opened or closed but it still gives you an indication of what the Di Filippo exhaust sounds like which is why I posted the first video.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FrVbT9VAn4

[QIKMIK]

How does one "Youtube"? I have a video of a quick 0-100 and drive-by which I'll link to the old fashioned way. Just remember that my Senator is on gas so the note is a bit higher and raspier than on 98ron.

Right click, save as...8mm film (http://www.users.on.net/~mjwt/Senator/QIKMIK1.wmv) - 14mb

Right click, save as...Betamax (http://www.users.on.net/~mjwt/Senator/QIKMIK2.wmv) - 12mb

Mick

[Number55]

Thanks for the vids and comments everyone! Both the defilippo and HM sound great. It will probably come down to price and what sort of a system i can setup as per Blown VRs detailed post! [emoji120]

[Wonky]

Wonky you are just jealous it sounds better than your KPM system :stick:

LOL - no way! Even after almost 6 years with the ute it still brings a big smile to my face every time I start it! :woohoo: