I've had my '71 500F since 2015 and all that time I've wondered why my exhaust pipe has the end pinched so that it is kind of flatish. Then I saw that same thing on a photo that 1500500 posted of his car. Since there are no other Fiat 500's in Nova Scotia, that I am aware of, I've never had the opportunity to compare with other 500s. So, is this common? Is it like this for everyone? Does the pinch cause some back-pressure in the exhaust that is necessary? Is there an explaination why Fiat does this?
Technical Exhaust Pipe pinch
- Thread starter ronstox
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Technical Exhaust Pipe pinch
It does appear more of a crimp than just the general shape , so it must create a slight resistance/back pressure, I wonder if it is to affect the sound in a beneficial way?
I hope not! The distinct noise of this engine is one of it's most endearing features. But anyway, I don't think it's done for noise suppression or beautification because mine is still loud enough that poeple turn to see just what is that thing coming down the road from 100m away.
Just a guess..... Could it be flattened just to stop it hitting the rear panel?
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I did wonder if it was to increase clearance, but it is not a large pipe anyway. Any one with a spare exhaust want to chop off or straighten the end to test
Just measured the clearance: ~1". I suppose if it were fully rounded out would be reduced to half of that.
Of course you know what it is, when you pull "wheelies" it squashes the pipe
Apparently these wheelies are always done by the previous owner!
Nothing to do with clearance, it was the original exhaust design and concept for that engine and I have to agree that a standard engine on tick over makes the most wonderful gentle sound. Sadly in modern motoring conditions it is not much appreciated when following up a long steep incline. But hey you are talking about 70 year old design and technology.
Thanks Toshi. But what about those wheelies? How did the previous owner manage to do them?
I believe on the VW beetle Herbie film they wound the rear torsion bar suspension right up and the added lots of weight on the rear end to bring it to normal height, so a child almost could lift the car by the front bumper.
Any one want to try it with their classic? Imagine the fun when your wife takes the car shopping and you haven't told her
