Miles Bennett
The Golf Tee mod is a simple modification that can be performed on certain BMW vehicles, such as the E36 328i, M3, and some newer 3 series models. It involves manipulating the vacuum hose connected to the actuator on the exhaust to make the exhaust louder below 2500 RPMs. Specifically, a golf tee or ball bearing is inserted into the hose, preventing the vacuum pump from closing the butterfly valve and thus altering the sound of the vehicle. While this modification does not affect performance and is reported to have no impact on error codes or check engine lights, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for all BMW models, and some variations may exist in the implementation process.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Removing the vacuum hose
Step 1: Accessing the Vacuum Hose
Go underneath the car and locate the vacuum hose that connects to the actuator on the exhaust system. The vacuum hose is responsible for controlling the flap that opens and closes the exhaust.
Step 2: Detaching the Vacuum Hose
To remove the vacuum hose, you will need to detach it from the actuator. This can be done in a few ways, depending on the specific construction of your car:
- Unscrewing: Try unscrewing the hose by turning it counterclockwise (righty-loosey). Vacuum hoses often have reverse threads, so turning it in the opposite direction may work.
- Bayonet Fitting: If your hose has a black collar at the end, it may be a bayonet-style fitting. Hold the black collar, turn it, and pull it out.
- Small Coupler: Some hoses have a small coupler that can be pulled out or unscrewed from a larger coupler.
Step 3: Securing the Hose
Once the hose is detached, you have a few options:
- Tuck Away: You can simply tuck the hose away somewhere, out of the way.
- Reattach: Alternatively, you can put the hose back on without any modifications, but this may not achieve the desired effect of the mod.
Step 4: Blocking the Hose (Optional)
If you choose to tuck the hose away, you can block the open end to prevent any debris or moisture from entering. This can be done by inserting a ball bearing, a golf tee, or even a BB pellet into the hose before tucking it away.
Golf Learning in Gurgaon: A Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Using a ball bearing
To perform the golf tee mod on a 535xi using a ball bearing, follow these steps:
First, go underneath the car and locate the vacuum hose that connects to the actuator on the exhaust. This hose controls the flap that opens and closes the exhaust pipe, altering the sound of the car. By blocking this hose with a ball bearing or a golf tee, you can prevent the flap from closing, resulting in a louder exhaust note.
Once you've located the vacuum hose, remove it from the actuator. You can then insert the ball bearing into the open end of the hose. The ball bearing acts as a plug, blocking the hose and preventing it from functioning. There's no need to push the bearing in; simply insert it and ensure it remains in place.
At this point, you have a couple of options. You can choose to tuck the hose away somewhere out of the way, or you can put it back on the actuator. Either method will work, and it's a matter of personal preference. By tucking the hose away, you ensure that it doesn't accidentally reconnect, but putting it back on the actuator keeps things neat and tidy.
Performing this modification using the ball bearing method guarantees that no error codes will be stored in the DME (Digital Motor Electronics). This is because you are physically blocking the hose rather than interfering with any electrical connections.
The entire process is straightforward and quick, taking less than a minute to complete. It is a simple and effective way to alter the sound of your 535xi, making it louder and more noticeable, especially during startup and at RPM ranges below 2500.
Golf's New Star: Scottie Scheffler's Secrets to Success
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Tuck away or reattach the hose
The "Golf Tee Mod" involves modifying the exhaust system of a car, specifically by disabling the exhaust flapper. This is done by accessing the vacuum hose that connects to the actuator on the exhaust and inserting an object, such as a ball bearing or a golf tee, into the hose.
Now, to tuck away or reattach the hose, here's a comprehensive guide with multiple approaches:
Using Hose Pliers
Hose pliers are a specialised type of long-nose pliers designed for removing hoses. First, rotate the hose to break it loose, then use the pliers to carefully grip the hose and detach it from the fitting. If you plan to reattach the hose, ensure you have the correct replacement hose and follow the steps in reverse, being careful not to damage the new hose.
Applying Heat
Heat can be used to soften the hose, making it easier to remove. There are several tools you can use for this purpose, such as a heat gun, a blow dryer, or carefully with a torch. Once the hose is softened, use a rag to grip it and work it loose by twisting it side to side. You can also use hot water, being mindful of where you pour it, especially if there are electrical components nearby.
Mechanical Removal
There are several mechanical techniques you can employ to remove the hose. One method involves using a wide blade screwdriver or putty knife to pry the hose away from the cover. You can also try using a trim/clip removal tool by inserting the head between the hose and the body and twisting it slightly side to side. If you're working with a plastic barb, carefully wiggle the hose side to side while twisting to break the grip, or use a razor blade to cut the hose immediately behind the barb.
Chemical Assistance
Some people have used chemical products like WD-40, olive oil, or petroleum jelly to aid in hose removal. However, it's important to note that these products may damage certain types of hoses over time, so use them with caution and avoid using them on rubber hoses. If you're working with a rubber hose, a silicone-based dielectric grease is a safer option.
Remember, when reattaching the hose, ensure you have the correct replacement hose and follow the appropriate safety procedures.
The Ultimate Guide to Sprigging Your Golf Green
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Disconnecting the electric cable
The electric cable method is considered neater because you don't need to find a golf tee. However, it requires more effort than the golf tee method.
- Go to the passenger side of the car and locate the rear light cluster area.
- Remove the plastic bolts that hold the lining in place.
- Pull back the lining to expose the cable with a connector plug.
- Unplug the cable.
This process should only take 5-10 minutes. It is important to note that this modification may store some codes in the car's system, but they are unlikely to trigger a warning light or cause issues during servicing. Most dealers do not seem to care about these codes.
It is recommended to reattach the tube if you plan to bring your car in for smog testing or servicing, just to be safe.
Golfing to Lose Weight: Does It Work?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The sound of the mod
The Golf Tee mod is a quick and easy modification that makes your BMW's exhaust louder, particularly at low RPMs. The sound is great, with a noticeable difference, especially on startup and through the RPM range. When cruising on the highway, the car has a sweet rumble around 2400 RPM, and under load, it sounds even better.
The mod involves going underneath the car and removing the vacuum hose that connects to the actuator on the exhaust. Then, either a ball bearing or a golf tee is inserted into the hose before it is reattached. This blocks the vacuum pump from closing the butterfly valve, increasing the volume of the exhaust.
Some people have reported that the mod makes their car slightly louder, while others have noticed a significant difference, with friends and family commenting on the increased volume. The sound is described as a sweet rumble, a beastly roar on a cold start, and a proper BMW sound.
One person reported that their valve became loose after the Golf Tee mod and made a racket, requiring them to remove the valve with a hammer and chisel. However, this appears to be an isolated incident, as most people report positive experiences with the mod.
Breaking 90: A Golfer's Guide to Success
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The Golf Tee mod makes your exhaust louder below 2500 RPMs.
The mod involves going underneath the car, removing the vacuum hose that connects to the actuator on the exhaust, inserting a golf tee or ball bearing, and then reattaching the hose.
The Golf Tee mod is quick and easy to do, taking less than a minute or up to 10 minutes depending on the method used.
The Golf Tee mod may not make a noticeable difference in sound. It may also cause the valve to become loose and make a racket, requiring removal with a hammer and chisel.
