I'm leaning toward a Maxford or MR header on this one, but I like the reliability factor of the ported manif option. If I wrap the header and keep the stock o2 housing (or get it ported by Buschur), and use a dp with a flex section will the header still crack over time? I want the most power I can get but I don't want to end up with a cracked header in a year or two. Please shed some experience or opinions if you can. Thanks...

 

There are no guarantees against a header cracking over time, especially one made of 304 stainless. A 321 stainless item should be more durable. Furthermore, wrapping a header keeps the heat in (and possibly moisture), which would actually increase the tendency to eventually crack, not prevent it.

Also FYI, the weight of the turbo is partially supported by a bracket that connects to the factory O2 sensor housing. Aftermarket housings (at least the ones of which I am aware) do not have provisions for this bracket.

 

Isn't possible to make a bracket? Also, how about porting the OE o2 housing? Retain bracket and get the additonal flow...

 

If you keep the stock bracket on the o2 housing I doubt you'll have any issues.

You can always port the stock o2 housing.

But I'm not sure the gains are worth the effort, on either item.

 

The Works cast 3" 02 housing has this bracket, FYI

 

If the Works O2 housing has the bracket, that would be advisable if you're going to run a tubular manifold, especially if you're contemplating a larger (heavier) turbo.

If you're running a cast manifold, whether you have the bracket or not shouldn't matter.

 

Oh ok so it's avail now? I was under the impression that it wasn't out yet. Do I have to purchase the Works dp w/ that? I hear it's the only true 3" inside diam. True?

 

sorry if this is a stupid question...

but what exactly makes a manifold crack?

is it the heat? Is it the weight of something attatched to it? both?

And why are tubular headers more prone to crack?

 

Ted, thanks again.

Are you happy with your SSAutoch manif?

 

Yes it can be either or a combination of the two. For instance, cold rain on a hot pipes or the added weight if not having the o2 housing bracket for support. And yes a cast manifold is stronger than 304 STAINLESS tubular mainfold - but the tradeoff is that a tub stainless manifold flows better = more power. I'm trying to have my cake and eat it to. Make the power w/ the tub header yet find a way to support the weight involved.

 

So far, yes.

 

Not exactly