Schweinhund

Does any one know:
1. If I should still pass CA smog without them? (nevermind the visual)
2. How much louder the sound in the car will be?
3. If there is any resonance or otherwise annoyances that will arise?

Thanks

AMG_KID

SoCaL kid here,

1.No you will not pass (my smog place in El Segundo NEVER checks under the car)

2.I heard a sound clip some where on youtube, its not that noticeable on video, but I can imagine in person it will be a slight difference in tone.

3.i removed the resonator and can imagine if i removed the secondary cats as well, the low hum sound would be more noticeable. but with a tuner car background, I like to hear the exhuast sound anytime.

AMG_Drvr

My car is a SoCal car but luckily don't have to worry about those inspections anymore. I first removed the resonator and it only added a little volume to the exhaust. I highly recommend it - it adds much needed bass to the car. It is a V8 for God's sake! I then took the rear CATs off and an x-pipe all at once. The car is definitely louder but not obnoxiously. When you get out of it and cruising it's fine but definitely sounds more muscular otherwise. I prefer it and it doesn't draw attention. I may add a Magnaflow touring muffler, but I am torn whether to lose the pure AMG sound. The newer AMGs are insanely loud compared to ours.

mikene55

With the secondary cats removed, is there any issue with CEL malfunctions?

bobbyjo9

No.. O2 readings are taken pre/post primary cats

amgalex

I have secondary cats removed and the resonator removed and replaced with an X-pipe,,....
Sound is how the e55 should have sounded from factory, not loud but just enough grunt to be able to hear that this is no ordinary Mercedes, its definitely not too loud and no annoying drone of any kind.
And removing Secondary cats will never give you a CEL

mikene55

thanks for all the info, Same results as amgalex

vincentie

so what do i need as far as piping for the deletion of the 2cdary cats?

MBFLO

get some hi flow cats

AMG_Drvr

I bought my car in SoCal but don't live there anymore. I just straight-piped mine. I don't have to worry about smog tests anymore - thankfully! If you do, I'd either leave them on or you'd probably have to add some hi-flos to pass inspection. I believe AMS posted within the last week or so of a good deal on hi-flo's from somebody. Maybe they'll chime in, if not I'll find their post. Good luck - you're going to love the new sound!

snooozie

I am thinking about getting rid of the secondary cats as with the x-pipe and resonator delete, the car is still too quite. Might move my x-pipe up to where the cats are and have mandrel bends where the resonator use to be