Cracked Exhaust Manifold repair

[William H.]

Is it possible to repair this original 1970 exhaust manifold with a crack and, if so, who does good work? Like to keep the original parts on the Corvette. GM #3846559.

[Patrick H.]

Re: Cracked Exhaust Manifold repair

My 71 had the same crack, and I had it fixed. The repair looked quite ugly, and I ended up replacing it. Unfortunately cracks in that location are common. Fortunately, used manifolds are common too.

[George D.]

Re: Cracked Exhaust Manifold repair

Bill,


Yes a manifold can be repaired. I had one done on my 69. It's some what of an costly involved process of heating and welding the manifold. The crack is rather large so I think Patrick is right about finding a replacement.


George

[Domenic T.]

Re: Cracked Exhaust Manifold repair

William,
I have welded it and agree with the others. If you are going to see it, it WILL be ugly. Trouble with that cast is that the heat up & cool off it go's thru really hardens up the cast. In many cases when it is done to look good, the crack will move to the edge of the weld. Nickel rod and silicone bronze were the best results I have used but the weld had to be peened with a sharp point on the peening hammer as it cooled to get a successful weld. That was ugly.
I also vote for a replacement. If it were a service vehicle that would be a different story.

Dom

[Edward B.]

Re: Cracked Exhaust Manifold repair

If you're really intent on getting it fixed, then send it to Jerry MacNeish. He can do wonders.

http://z28camaro.com/wp/restoration-services/

(Scroll down to the exhaust manifold pictures.)

Ed

[Dan P.]

Re: Cracked Exhaust Manifold repair

The best guy to weld it and texture it back is Jim Synder.678 544 3910. I have used Jerry MacNeish in the past . He sends the stuff out to be welded .EXTREMLY expensive .He estimated a 1957 2x4 manifold repair to be about $75.00. Got the bill it was $750.00 .Jim is versed in welding cast iron . He repaired A 1956 exhaust manifold for me that was cracked right though the numbers .The repair was virtually undetectable . He even redid the numbers were he welded and they looked great .He charges by the hour and is VERY trustworthy.

[William H.]

Re: Cracked Exhaust Manifold repair

Thanks, Dan. I was going to give up and get an other original one but after your suggestion, I am going to call Jim. Appreciated.