Bobcat Exhaust, 1-5/8 with Straight Stinger, Stainless

OVERVIEW

Elevate your air-cooled performance to the professional tier with the BUGPACK Bobcat Exhaust system. Specifically engineered for high-displacement powerplants, this 1-5/8 inch mandrel-bent system is the definitive choice for the VW enthusiast who refuses to compromise on flow efficiency or build quality. While standard exhaust systems often act as a bottleneck for performance builds, the Bobcat utilizes a sophisticated merge collector design that optimizes exhaust gas scavenging. This process creates a vacuum effect that pulls spent gases out of the combustion chamber more effectively, significantly reducing backpressure and allowing your 2000cc or larger stroker motor to achieve its true horsepower potential. This system isn''t just about raw performance metrics; it delivers that iconic, deep-throated air-cooled bark through its straight stinger design, making it a favorite for street-legal performance cars and aggressive off-road builds alike.

Durability and aesthetics go hand-in-hand with the B204610, as it is constructed entirely from premium-grade stainless steel. Unlike traditional mild steel exhausts that begin to flake and rust the moment they heat up, this stainless steel masterpiece retains its structural integrity and resists corrosion even in high-moisture environments. The extra-thick, precision-ground flanges are a standout feature, providing a massive, flat mating surface that ensures a leak-free seal against your cylinder headsan essential factor in preventing burnt valves and erratic idle issues. Designed with a low-profile tuck, the Bobcat provides excellent ground clearance for lowered street cars or buggies navigating rough terrain. Please note that this performance-first design eliminates the heat riser provisions, prioritizing maximum exhaust velocity and a clean, uncluttered engine bay for the serious racer or show-car builder.

FITMENT

This exhaust system is designed for Type 1 based air-cooled engines (1600cc and larger) and is most effective on high-performance builds ranging from 1914cc to 2332cc and beyond. It is compatible with the following models:

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1950 through 1979 (Sedan and Convertible)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Dune Buggies: All years utilizing a Type 1 upright engine configuration
• Sand Rails & Kit Cars: Universal fit for Type 1 air-cooled platforms

SPECS

• Primary Tubing Diameter: 1-5/8 Inches (Large Bore)
• Material: High-Grade Stainless Steel
• Stinger Style: Straight Stinger
• Collector Type: 4-into-1 Merge Collector
• Flange Thickness: Heavy-duty thick-ground flanges for superior sealing
• Heat Risers: None (Competition/Performance design)
• Finish: Raw Stainless Steel (Can be polished to a mirror finish)
• Part Number: B204610
• Weight: Approximately 17 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Optimize Your Air-Fuel Mixture Post-Installation

Moving from a stock or small-bore exhaust to a 1-5/8 inch high-flow system like the Bobcat will significantly change the volumetric efficiency of your engine. Because this exhaust scavenges gases so much more effectively, it often pulls more air through the intake, which can lead to a lean-running condition if you don''t adjust your carburetors. We strongly recommend checking your spark plug color after the first few heat cycles and potentially stepping up your main jet size by one or two increments. This ensures your high-performance engine stays cool and well-lubricated under the increased power load.

2. Use Copper Gaskets and High-Temp Anti-Seize

To get the most out of those thick stainless flanges, we always recommend using premium copper exhaust gaskets rather than standard paper or composite ones. Copper gaskets "crush" slightly to fill any microscopic imperfections between the head and the exhaust flange, ensuring a permanent seal. Additionally, because stainless steel is prone to "galling" or seizing when subjected to extreme heat, always apply a liberal amount of high-temperature nickel or copper-based anti-seize to your exhaust studs. This will save you a massive headache if you ever need to remove the system for engine maintenance in the future.

3. Maintaining the Stainless Luster

While stainless steel won''t rust through like mild steel, it will undergo a natural "blueing" or "straw" discoloration due to the extreme heat of the exhaust gases. This is a normal characteristic of the metal. To keep the system looking show-ready, we recommend cleaning the entire exhaust with denatured alcohol or a high-quality degreaser before the very first start-up. Any fingerprints or oil residue left on the pipes will "bake" into the finish permanently once the metal gets hot. For long-term maintenance, a periodic polish with a dedicated stainless steel cleaner or a fine Scotch-Brite pad will keep the surface looking uniform and professional.