Hi all
I just got myself a 1988 535i. Previous owner wanted an Alpine I guess and made my car an Alpine poser. Looks great from my perspective, really stands out
The main issue with the car (besides no AC) is that the exhaust drones at normal driving RPM (3k ish). Looking at either changing the muffler or a new system. Any suggestions?
Welcome! Nice ride! I see this is your first post -- please read and heed the Forum and Tech FAQ sections!
Look at the position of the exhaust tips relative to the position of the bumper. Anything further forward than even will contribute to drone, especially on cars with US-spec bumpers as yours has.
Nice looking car and an unusual color, though I like it myself.
Many aftermarket exhausts drone, especially one put together at muffler shops. Not an expert on it myself, but a resonator might help if it's missing. You can pretty much tell what came on your car originally at Realoem. It's not perfect and a little hard to follow at first, but it's an invaluable resource.
Shawn D." wrote: Jun 14, 2025 12:33 PM
Welcome! Nice ride! I see this is your first post -- please read and heed the Forum and Tech FAQ sections!
Look at the position of the exhaust tips relative to the position of the bumper. Anything further forward than even will contribute to drone, especially on cars with US-spec bumpers as yours has.
Alpine... Alpine...
Alpina
Thanks for the advice (and the correction). I will continue to search.
Mike W." wrote: Jun 14, 2025 1:05 PM
Welcome to the group!
Nice looking car and an unusual color, though I like it myself.
Many aftermarket exhausts drone, especially one put together at muffler shops. Not an expert on it myself, but a resonator might help if it's missing. You can pretty much tell what came on your car originally at Realoem. It's not perfect and a little hard to follow at first, but it's an invaluable resource.
Thanks Mike. building up my online resources. My years have been around vintage BMW motorcycles and Porsches. Not my first classic BMW car but first in over 30 years.
If you have different diameter pipes on whole assembly, usually cause drone. Specially if you have bigger pipes at back section and smaller diameter closer to engine section
The only solution is to part ways with the car I’m afraid. And in a biggly manner - you need to export it. To Canada specifically. I know a guy. I can help you out.
On a serious note, this might prove helpful. I’ve had it saved away in my favourites for some time. Solving Drone with Science
