FLASHARK Catless Downpipe Exhaust for 1997-2005 Audi S4 B5, A6/Allroad C5 2.7L Bi-Turbo, Compatible with K04/RS6, 3-2.5 Inches
Boost your Audi's performance with the FLASHARK Catless Downpipe Exhaust. Designed for Audi S4 B5, A6 C5, and Allroad C5 models with the 2.7L BiTurbo V6, this downpipe removes restrictive catalytic converters for improved exhaust flow, better turbo response, increased horsepower, and torque. Made from high-quality stainless steel with TIG welding and mandrel bends, it offers a seamless fit and enhanced durability for maximum performance.
Specifications:
Brand Name: FLASHARK
Certificate: ISO9001:2000
Application: Exhaust Down Pipe
Material: Stainless Steel
Surface: Mirror Polish
Model: DP29739
Pipe Inlet Diameter: 3in.
Pipe Outlet Diameter: 2.25in.
Pipe Thickness:16 gauge (1.5mm)
Pipe Diameter: 3"(76mm) Tapering to 2.5"(64mm)
Turbo Fitment: for K03 Turbo & Upgrade K04/RS6 Turbo
Package Includes:
2x 3'' to 2.5'' Upper Section
2x 2.5'' Pipes
2x V-band Clamps
2x Gaskets
Features:
1. Improve Engine Output and Efficiency, Give you extra HPs, and increases torque
2. Large diameter and free flow tubing for unrestricted flow, Making the exhaust air flow smooth, Designed for high-performance racing
3. Made of High-Quality 16-gauge T-304 Stainless Steel with Computerized Mandrel-Bends
4. All joints are TIG welded to prevent cracking and wear
5. CNC Machine Flange for MAX Strength and Durability
6. Flanges chrome plated for corrosion resistance
FLASHARK's downpipes are designed to seamlessly replace your restrictive stock downpipes, positioned just after the catalytic converters. These upgraded downpipes significantly enhance horsepower and torque on turbocharged Audi S4 B5, A6 C5, and Allroad C5 models with the 2.7L BiTurbo V6 engine. By allowing exhaust gases to flow more freely from the turbo, they reduce turbo lag and increase power. Made from high-quality stainless steel, these downpipes improve exhaust airflow, providing a smoother driving experience and optimizing your Audi’s overall performance.
What does a Downpipe do?
The downpipe exhaust on your Audi S4 B5, A6 C5, or Allroad C5 with the 2.7L BiTurbo V6 engine directs exhaust gases from the turbocharger to the rest of the exhaust system. An aftermarket downpipe, such as the FLASHARK Catless Downpipe, is typically larger in diameter, either removing the catalytic converter or replacing it with a high-flow unit. This upgrade significantly improves exhaust flow, allowing gases to exit the turbo more efficiently. By replacing the restrictive factory downpipe, you reduce turbo lag, increase horsepower and torque, and enable higher boost levels. This removal of factory restrictions maximizes your Audi’s performance and enhances the driving experience.
Fitment:
2000-2002 Audi S4 B5 2.7L 2671CC V6 DOHC
2000-2002 Audi RS4 2.7L 2671CC V6 DOHC
2000-2004 Audi A6 Quattro 2.7L 2671CC V6 DOHC
2001-2005 Audi Allroad Quattro 2.7L 2671CC V6 DOHC
1997-2001 Audi S4/RS4 (B5 | Typ 8D) 2.7L 6MT
1997-2004 Audi A6/Allroad (C5 | Typ 4B) 2.7L 6MT
Note: 2.7L B5/ C5 V6 30V Turbo Models ONLY
Which Audi models does this downpipe fit?
A1: It fits the 2000-2002 Audi S4 with the 2.7L biturbo V6 (B5 platform) and the corresponding A6 and Allroad with the same engine code. If you're running K04 turbos (factory RS6 turbos or upgraded hybrids), this is the flange pattern you need. The 3" to 2.5" reducer steps down to match your exhaust system. Double-check your turbo part numbers — some early B5 S4s came with K03s, which use a different flange.
What's the power potential with catless downpipes on the 2.7L biturbo?
A2: The 2.7L responds well to exhaust mods because each turbo only has to spool one bank — you're not fighting for exhaust pulse timing across cylinders. With catless downpipes and a tune, you're looking at 30-50whp over stock, depending on whether you're running stock K04s or upgraded hybrids. The biturbo setup actually spools faster with less backpressure since each turbo isn't starving for flow from the other bank.
Will I need a tune after installing catless downpipes?
A3: Not strictly — the ECU will compensate to some degree. But here's the thing: without a tune, you'll throw a CEL immediately (P0420/P0430 for sure), and the car will run slightly rich because the O2 sensors detect no cat activity. A proper tune with a vag-com or ecutek removes that CEL, optimizes the air-fuel ratio, and actually lets you feel the power gains. A downpipe without a tune is half an upgrade.
What causes the check engine light after installing catless downpipes?
A4: The downstream O2 sensors (post-cat sensors) detect that your catalytic converters are gone. They expect to see a certain conversion efficiency from the cats — without them, the sensor readings look wrong to the ECU. You get P0420 (bank 1) or P0430 (bank 2), sometimes both. Some people run O2 spacers or defoulers to fool the sensors, but the proper fix is a tune that disables post-cat monitoring. Just know that doing so makes the car non-compliant with emissions testing in most states.
What's the sound difference with catless downpipes on the B5 S4?
A5: The biturbo V6 sounds absolutely mean with catless downpipes. The turbo flutter is more audible, the spool-up is louder, and under deceleration you get some serious pops and crackles. It's not quiet. The resonated midpipe option tames the drone a bit if you're doing long highway stints — the non-resonated version is pure aggression. Choose based on how much your neighbors can tolerate.
Are these downpipes legal for street use in California?
A6: Absolutely not. California Vehicle Code Section 27156 prohibits any device that removes or renders inoperative any emission control system — catalytic converters included. Installing catless downpipes on any vehicle registered in California is illegal for street use. You're fine for track days, off-road events, or private property use. But if you get pulled over or need a smog check, you're failing. Period.
What's the difference between resonated and non-resonated downpipes?
A7: Resonated downpipes have a small chamber inside that reduces drone at highway speeds — it acts like a muffler for the exhaust gases themselves. Non-resonated is straight pipe all the way, maximum flow, maximum sound. For a daily-driven B5 S4, resonated is the smarter choice. For a dedicated track car or weekend toy that you want to hear, non-resonated delivers the goods.
How does the catless downpipe affect turbo spool on the biturbo V6?
A8: Less backpressure means faster spool. The factory downpipes are choked — they're designed for emissions compliance, not performance. Removing the cats lets the turbo breathe easier, so you hit boost sooner. On a car with 18-20psi of boost like the B5 S4, dropping 2-3psi of backpressure makes a noticeable difference in throttle response, especially in the midrange where the biturbos are transitioning.
Do I need different gaskets or hardware for installation?
A9: The Flashark downpipe comes with new exhaust gaskets and hardware, but you should also grab a new turbo outlet gasket if yours looks at all worn. The V-band clamps are reusable if they're not corroded, but new ones are cheap insurance. If you're reusing the factory midpipe, make sure the seal between the downpipe and midpipe is tight — leaks here will set your AFRs haywire and trigger a CEL.
Can I run these downpipes with an aftermarket exhaust system?
A10: Yes — the 3" to 2.5" reducer on the downpipe outlet means it pairs with most cat-back exhausts designed for the B5 S4 platform. APR, Supersprint, and Milltek all make systems that mate directly. If you're running a custom setup, just confirm the diameter and flange type before you buy. The last thing you want is to get everything bolted up and find out your midpipe is 2.25" instead of 2.5".
What's the performance difference between K03 and K04 turbos with these downpipes?
A11: K04 turbos flow significantly more air than K03s — the compressor wheels and turbine blades are physically larger. With K04s and catless downpipes, you're not bottlenecking the exhaust side, so the turbo can actually do its job. K03s still benefit, but you're more likely to hit compressor surge if you're pushing them hard with the added flow capacity. Know your turbo limits before you chase numbers.
How do I maintain catless downpipes on a high-mileage B5 S4?
A12: Stainless steel resists corrosion, but the interior of a downpipe exposed to exhaust gases will carbon up over time. On a high-mileage car, you might notice some discoloration inside — that's normal. If you're tracking the car hard, check the welds periodically for cracks from heat cycling. The V-band clamps can loosen from expansion and contraction, so re-torque them after the first few heat cycles. Keep an eye on your O2 sensor health too — raw exhaust gases shorten sensor life.