I’ve always been a gearhead at heart. Ever since I started driving, I’ve loved tinkering with cars and finding ways to make them faster and louder. There’s just something so satisfying about the roar of an engine with some upgrades under the hood. So when I heard about the Flowmaster 81068 Manifold Downpipe Kit, I knew I had to try it out on my ride. Keep reading for all the dirty details on this exhaust system upgrade!
Testing the Flowmaster 81068 on My Trusty Steed
The Flowmaster 81068 is compatible with a range of vehicles, but I decided to install it on my much-beloved 2008 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck. With a 5.7L HEMI V8 under the hood, this truck already has some power, but it’s always room for improvement. The promise of increased horsepower and torque along with Flowmaster’s signature aggressive exhaust note was too tempting to pass up.
One of the great things about the 81068 is that it’s a direct replacement for the stock manifolds and downpipes. So I didn’t have to worry about compatibility issues or fabricating anything custom. This kit is designed to bolt right on to Dodge Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 trucks from 2003 to 2008 with the 5.7L engine. It’s also compatible with several other late model Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles. The easy installation was a big selling point for me since I was planning to tackle it myself in my garage.
Packing Some Extra Punch with Better Flow
So how does the Flowmaster 81068 improve performance? It all comes down to better flow. The stock manifolds and downpipes on these trucks tend to be restrictive. This exhaust kit replaces them with larger diameter mandrel bent tubing to allow more exhaust gases to flow out efficiently. The kit also eliminates a catalyst converter that can hinder airflow.
With freer flowing exhaust, the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to expel gases. Reduced backpressure results in more usable horsepower and torque output. Flowmaster claims gains of up to 18 horsepower and 22 lb-ft of torque with the 81068 kit. That’s some substantial extra power just from opening up the exhaust!
Built to Last from Stainless Steel
An important factor for any exhaust system is durability. I wanted something that would stand up to years of use without rusting or cracking. The Flowmaster 81068 delivers with its stainless steel construction.
The manifolds, downpipes, and connector pipe are all made from 16 gauge stainless steel. This material is corrosion resistant for long life even with exposure to the elements. The downpipes feature a special layered design with an aluminum core sandwiched between two stainless steel layers. This improves strength while remaining sleek in diameter.
All the welds and joints are precise and clean on this kit. And it comes with all new gaskets and hardware needed for installation. So I can feel confident about both the quality and performance of these components.
Straightforward DIY Installation
One of my requirements for this upgrade was being able to tackle the install myself in my home garage. The Flowmaster kit was very accommodating in that regard. With basic hand tools and a few hours of time, I was able to swap out the stock manifolds and downpipes for the new set.
The instructions provided were easy to follow. I started by disconnecting the battery and removing some components for better access. Taking off the stock manifolds and downpipes took some muscle but went smoothly. The Flowmaster pieces bolted up in their place without any issues using the supplied hardware.
The only custom fabrication required was cutting the intermediate pipe for the downpipes. But the measurements were spot on, so it was a simple cut job. I did have to drill out the catalytic converter to remove the core. Otherwise, everything else was just bolt-on. After a few hours of wrenching, I took my truck for a test drive to enjoy the new roar.
Unleashing the HEMI Growl
Without a doubt, the Flowmaster 81068 lives up to its reputation for sound. As soon as I fired up the engine, I could hear the difference. The rumble at idle let me know my truck was packing some serious new attitude. Accelerating down the street, the exhaust note was music to my ears.
That iconic HEMI V8 grunt comes through strong with this system. It’s aggressive without being deafening, even with the catalytic converter gutted. There are some light crackles and pops on deceleration too, which I love. The sound reminds me of a muscle car – fitting for the power under the hood!
When cruising on the highway, the cabin is not too noisy for conversation or listening to music. But you still get that sweet mellow exhaust tone coming through. Overall, the Flowmaster struck the perfect balance of volume and tone for me.
Improved Performance You Can Feel
Beyond just sounding great, the Flowmaster 81068 delivers on its promise of increased power. Acceleration felt noticeably stronger, especially in the crucial mid-range rpm band. With the restrictive stock system gone, the HEMI can really breathe and make its power.
Getting up to speed on highway on-ramps or passing slower traffic feels much more effortless now. The engine also seems to spin more freely to its redline when I put my foot down. Just driving around town with modest throttle input, I can feel the extra torque this kit unleashed.
I’ve been having a blast finding new roads to open up the throttle and experience the improved power delivery. The Flowmaster 81068 brought out the true muscle car spirit in my Ram 1500. I can’t wait to really put it to the test with some performance testing down the quarter mile.
Subtleties to Consider
While I’m thrilled with the new performance, there are some subtle considerations around fuel trim, sensors, and emissions. Removing the main catalytic converter does impact emissions, so this mod isn’t 50-state legal. I don’t have visual inspections where I live, but it’s something to keep in mind depending on your local regulations.
The oxygen sensors may also need an extension harness or relocation to accommodate the new downpipes. And the engine computer may need a tune to adjust for the airflow changes and catalytic converter delete. I haven’t noticed any issues yet, but will be monitoring my fuel trims and sensors to see if any adjustments are needed.
Bolstering the Flowmaster Brand
This experience has reinforced my confidence in Flowmaster exhaust products. The fit and finish is top notch with the 81068 kit. Power gains are as-advertised, if not better. And the sound is exactly what I was hoping for.
Considering the quality components and improved performance, the price is more than fair at around $650 online. There are cheaper options from other brands, but I don’t think they would match the workmanship. For me, it’s worth investing a bit more for the Flowmaster name and results.
I’m looking forward to racking up many more miles driving my truck equipped with this kit. The Flowmaster has given my Ram 1500 a new aggressive character that puts a smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel. This is an exhaust system I can enjoy driving and showing off for years to come.
Gearing Up for More Power Mods
Now that I’ve gotten a taste of improved performance with the Flowmaster exhaust, I’m already thinking about my next upgrades. A cold air intake could work nicely with the freer flowing exhaust for even more power. And I’d consider a tune to optimize everything if I start noticing any fueling issues.
Beyond bolt-ons, I’m tempted to swap the camshaft, lifters, and pushrods to really wake up the HEMI. That would likely require a new valve train upgrade too. And while I’m in there, ported cylinder heads could help optimize airflow. Oh, and can’t forget a lower temperature thermostat!
As you can see, modifying cars can quickly become an addicting (and expensive) hobby. But for gearheads like myself, gradually turning our trusty daily drivers into roaring performance machines is part of the fun and pride of ownership. The Flowmaster 81068 was the gateway drug to my next round of upgrades. By the time I’m done, my Ram 1500 will be a straight up sleeper street truck ready to smoke some tires!
