downpipe question
 

Does anyone here know if a downpipe would harm the engine and if there would be any power gains, also if I get a chip upgread through GIAC will the down pipe help, my cat converter broke off... therefore, I am trying to fix it and the most cost effective way is downpipe but if it harms the engine I dont want to take the chance. If anyone could answer that question I would greatly appriciate it.

No, it doesn't harm the engine. I've had mine installed (3 inch DP) for 5 months and runs great. It does cause the check engine light to come on due to the O2 sensor and the fuel emissions it gives off since the cat is no longer there. I installing my neuspeed exhaust this coming week so I can upragde to the APR stage 2+ to get the code cleared. So the code can be cleared off once the DP is installed. I saw a noticeable increase in power and less drag in the turbo. I'd recommened it to anyone b/c it does provide extra power and it's fairly cheap.