ARK DT-S Stainless Steel Exhaust System 2.0L/2.3L

[mazdaracer]

I've had this system installed for quite a few months now, still going strong. The quality is excellent and the sound is sporty deep, not raspy at all.

No dyno's have been done yet, schedule conflicts and i have to put the stock intake back on...

Specs:
- 65mm Stainless Steel piping (2.5")
- Stainless Steel resonator and muffler
- Tig Welded
- 4.5" Slash Cut Tip w/Engraved ARK Badge
- Slip on w/Clamps
- MRSP $499

Manufacturer Website: www.arkspeedracing.com (http://www.arkspeedracing.com)
Direct Product Link: http://www.arkspeedracing.com/arkcmd/203642/

VIDEO SOUND CLIP (http://www.imazda.com/forums/showthread.php?t=660)

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_01.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_02.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_03.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_04.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_05.jpg


http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_install_1.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_install_2.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_install_3.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_install_4.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_install_5.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_install_6.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/ARK_install_7.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/EXH_tip_01.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/EXH_tip_03.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/EXH_tip_04.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/EXH_tip_05.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/EXH_tip_06.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/EXH_tip_07.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/EXH_tip_08.jpg

[mazdaracer]

Well, turns out ARK had to replace the resonator, as due to a miscalculation in exhaust temp heat, the lazer welds performed were not thick enough and eventually cracked along the edges...these welds had been grinded down and smoothed out, so you'd never even know it was welded. I suspect the grinding down of the welds weaked the seam.

Since mine was the very first system produced for the 3, they didn't think mine had been effected...but it had. I had an obvious leak, i could hear it as plain as day. This was a few months ago and just never got around to swapping out the resonator for the new design. The new design has the outsides welded bigtime, it's not going to crack anymore :)

pics of the swap, curteuosy of 6jen

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_replace1.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_replace2.jpg

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_replace3.jpg



And now onto the install (I HATE WORKING UNDER CARS WITHOUT A LIFT!!!!!!! )

Ok, so now that i have the clamps removed, i just gotta grab and twist...

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_install1.jpg


I'll start at the rear, grab it here at the end and twist...umph

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_install2.jpg



It's not moving, maybe grab it like this instead...

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_install3.jpg


6jen - doesn't it just slip on/off?
mazdaracer - Yes dear it does, but there are a few things like the rear subframe that are kinda in the way ;) Maybe if i grab-twist-pull....

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_install4.jpg


GRRRRRRRR (shaking the shit out of it thinking maybe brute force could prevaille...)

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_install5.jpg


Now that the neighbors know that i know just about all the curse words known in english language... IT FINALLY CAME OFF!!! w00t!!

But now to mess with the mid section....

http://www.imazda.com/mazdaracer/Mazda3/ARK/Replace/ARK_install6.jpg


Pics end here...after having to get the BFH and getting mad at a stupid exhaust system...jen said fuck it, i'm outta here, you're on your own...lol

Once i got the stupid parts off, i had to beat off the old resonator from the cat...it's no big deal really, but i didn't have anymore jackstands (the 4 i have are under the Protege) and i had to go buy the 2 i used today...the fact my driveway slopes down..yadda yadda yadda...there's only like 10" to work under. Did i mention i hate working under cars without a lift...??!!

Anyway, it's all back on and i replaced all 3 clamps aswell. I really wish they could have been smart like Vibrant and made it flanged. For the money ARK and others charge for these SS systems, flanges should be a MUST!

[Intruder]

Looks like pure seks. Too bad it's a PITA to work on.

Nice pics too. ;)

[kitty]

exhaust clamps FTL

[mazdaracer]

UPDATE:

So 3.5 months later, turns out the V2 resonator has also sprung a leak. There was a small crack along the weld seam at the front on the resonator, right where the hanger was welded on...so i called up ARK and they just said, come on over and we'll swap it for our new V3 resonator.

Now, i must say, ARK has had quite a nightmare with the Mazda3 exhaust. Out of all the systems they make (other Mazda's included) they seem to only have problems with the Mazda3. But they never quit and took alot of heat for it. They stood strong and kept doing their best to improve the design. Their customer service has been top notch and they've always been immediate in their response to problems. They actually swapped out many systems from the guys on the mazda3forums at a great loss in revenue. But again, they did not give up and even after the V2 systems resulted in leaks, they kept forging ahead and made V3, even after the advice to just quit and cut their losses.

V3 has been tested for 4-5 months now and they've had zero failures. Above i mentioned 3.5 months, so ya, i've been driving with a leak for bit...lol but yesterday i went over to see them and have the resonator replaced. Last time i went over, they inspected it and handed me a new resonator (see above swap post), but this time was different.

Drove the car up onto the ramps and we got under it to check it out...yup a small leak again...ok, lets swap it right now. Busted out the tools and got to work. We took the whole system off and then proceded to install the new resonator...as i was tightening the clamps and such, Ted was reinstalling the muffler section...as i looked back, i was uhhh, hey thats a new muffler?? he said yup...i'm like what? we are swapping the entire system to V3!!! OH SNAP!! are you serious!?! much to my amazement, Ted from ARK just gave me yet another new system for free!! dude, how lucky can i be!! For this i am TOTALLY GREATFULL!! ARK ftw!!

The V3 system has a longer rear tip section extending the tip about 1.5 to 1.75" further out. They've also used a different welding procedure to strengthen the weak areas. As you can see from the pics above, the tip was sucked under the bumper cutout and on some cars it caused minor bumper melt. I never had any, but others have reported it. The new system looks sweet and while it took a few to get used to it (i liked the stealth look of it) i really like the way it sticks out just a little bit now. While i was kinda sad to see the original very first system go, i was extremely greatfull for the new system.

It's all shiney and new and looks, sounds and performs killer. Below are some pics of the new tip placement. BTW, the new clamps i installed when i swapped the resonator above have been perfect.

I can't thank ARK enough for the awesome service and their great generosity. They've truely had a nightmare with the Mz3, but still provide service with a smile. That shows true professionalizm and for that, i am proud to have ARK parts installed on my car.

[kitty]

I think it sticks out alittle to far now.
its cool you got a fresh exhaust for free though.


Now that I look at the before shots that doesnt look right either.
Thats one of the things I'm realy picky about though.

[MD323]

i think it looks tits with that small over-hang. im trying to convince a friends mom to put one on her 3, she says its too quite for a mazda ( only because her son and I both own 323's with aftermarket exhaust :D )

[mazdaracer]

I am not at liberty to say, but i'd suggest holding off for a few months before the convincing... ;)

[oneill8769]

What's up with exhausts springing leaks on our cars? :( First the MS exhaust, now this one. WTF, mate?

[kitty]

i think it looks tits with that small over-hang

You think it looks tits?o.O

[MD323]

You think it looks tits?o.O

its a slang term i picked up working in shops, basically:

tits = desirable, or close to perfect


see now you've learned something:bigthumbup:

[mazdaracer]

What's up with exhausts springing leaks on our cars? :( First the MS exhaust, now this one. WTF, mate?

apparently the Mazda3 engines produce a greater amount of heat than others...this is what ARK suspects.

I was unaware there have been issues with the MS exhaust...multiple complaints or just some flukes?

[oneill8769]

apparently the Mazda3 engines produce a greater amount of heat than others...this is what ARK suspects.

I was unaware there have been issues with the MS exhaust...multiple complaints or just some flukes?

Apparently multiple. Can I post a link from another forum on here? I'll show ya

EDIT: Nevermind, it's acting up. But anyway, TGM3 and a few others were having problems. Might have been more, too, I haven't checked the thread recently.

[Marc]

The V3 looks good IMO, i don't think it sticks out too far.

[mazdaracer]

Apparently multiple. Can I post a link from another forum on here? I'll show ya

sure man, we aren't *no links to other forums* nazis ;)

[oneill8769]

sure man, we aren't *no links to other forums* nazis ;)

Haha true that. If I can get it to load (it's been giving me crap lately), I'll post it up. Some good readin'

[oneill8769]

http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=66400.0

[prakashkamath]

i like the way it sticks out a little.

[kitty]

http://www.fmvperformance.com/forum_items/Smileys/default/frostyfire.gif

its an oolong smilie

[wheresthericego]

I love how it sticks out like that

[mazdaracer]

Here are some pics Ted at ARK took after the install.

http://arkperformanceusa.com/photo/data/512/Picture_042_copy.jpg

http://arkperformanceusa.com/photo/data/512/Picture_046_copy.jpg

http://arkperformanceusa.com/photo/data/512/Picture_051_copy.jpg

http://arkperformanceusa.com/photo/data/512/driver_side.jpg

http://arkperformanceusa.com/photo/data/512/rear_view.jpg

[oneill8769]

You see the link I posted?

[mazdaracer]

yup, read it...sounds like the exact same issue....

[oneill8769]

So you think it's the heat issue?

[mazdaracer]

No, it's always been a build issue. Both companies know how to make exhaust systems, as they have many other sucessfull models. It would seem the heat these engines produce is above average, therefore bringing these poor production or production methods to light...they may have worked perfectly fine on other cars...but they've had to go back and redesign or re-structure their build process to accomidate.

[oneill8769]

Ah, I see. What is the Ark made of, SS? Is there any companies that make titanium exhausts for our car? It seems to be quite a hit on other cars, but expensive. Any experience?

[kitty]

65mm Stainless Steel piping (2.5")

in the first post.

[mazdaracer]

ya, i beleive it is T-304 SS. The material is just fine, it's the method of welding that needs to be addressed, as with design/placement of the piping in/out of the resonator/muffler. While the resonator has the in/out pipes centered, the muffler does not. I see this as a slight design flaw. The in/out of the muffler should be centered so that the heat is dissappated evenly throughout the casing. (not sure of the way the MS exhaust is, i am going off the ARK system)

Since i live in Cali, i don't have to deal with rust...so even SS is bit overkill. No exp. with titanium systems...

[kitty]

Titanium is popular for the exclusivity factor and mild weight reduction.

heres a snippet anyhow
Titanium Exhaust Systems
In the US, the environmental agencies now require guaranteed corrosion resistance on exhaust systems to upwards of 100,000 miles. Titanium easily achieves this requirement and surpasses the stainless steel (409) systems currently in place. A typical expansion box and tail pipe in 409 steel weighed 10kg. A redesign with titanium reduced this to 3.2 kg! This 6-8 kg weight saving beneficially reclassified the vehicle within the CAFE system.

Commercially pure titanium sheet and tube are the materials of choice for silencers, and pipework. Reduction of both weight and cost are addressed by selecting the thinnest gauges of materials consistent with the engineering and acoustic requirements of the exhaust system. Titanium may not be suitable for the entire system, and in practice will most probably be limited to components in which the metal temperature does not exceed 400°C for sustained periods of time. US units coupled immediately behind the catalytic converter continue to perform well. The use of titanium lugs welded to the pipe will almost certainly prove to be the most effective way to attach the exhaust to the chassis, (via rubber isolators), but other methods are being tested

[oneill8769]

Hmm, interesting. I know Chris (thebeansoldier) just got a Velside (drool) titanium exhaust for his s2k, and was trying to find a place to weld/install it. So nice.

And I hear ya about SS not being necessary, I'm in Florida, and it's really not necessary here, either, but it's nice to have.

[kitty]

why does the exhaust need welding?
that defeats the purpose of getting one pre made doesnt it?

[mazdaracer]

I'd hate to think a veilside exhaust has clamps and requires welding.... and i'm suprised Bean doesn't have a welder :eek:

Although in Florida, it's alot more humid...so SS is kinda warranted ;)

[oneill8769]

Well, I'm not sure if he needs it welded, per say, but more along the lines of installed.

And yeah, I didn't think of the humidity factor. I'm probably going to go with the Sport-Element exhaust, 230 bucks for a SS exhaust can't be beaten, IMO. Only needs a hangar added in so it'll sit in higher and more tucked in, and a removal of the silencer.

Link - http://www.speed-element.com/servlet/Detail?no=48

[mazdaracer]

Thats a good price...never heard of the company though.

Ever since i got the 3, i don't like to see the muffler anymore...i like the mid-muffler design where all you see is the tip. Just my personal preference. I feel it looks much more classy and less boy racer.

Plus, i also beleive that a mid-muffler design promotes a quiter exhaust too.

[oneill8769]

True, true. The clips of it are pretty clean, I'll link ya if you want.

Not to mention that when I boost, I'll just do straight DP :D (might piss me off after awhile, so we'll see about that lol). A 3" exhaust for sure, though