[SEL] OT - Custom headers leaking

[Kerry]

George you can buy a new one
http://www.ford.com.au/servlet/Satellite?c=DFYPage&cid=1248884753507&pagename=FOA%2Fcontroller&site=FOA
Kerry





> Since the list gets quiet during the Portland show I thought I'd post 
> something for those stuck at home like myself;-)
>
> This isn't totally off topic as it does deal with an engine, but just a 
> different type of engine than most of you deal with.
>
> My 64 Falcon has a custom set of Dawson Racing headers and I recently 
> noticed some bad leaks at the slip joints for #3 and #4 cylinders on the 
> passenger side.
>
> In the past I've had other vehicles with headers, but they were always one 
> piece headers made at a header factory.  This is the first time I've had 
> something that was truly custom fabricated just for my car and engine 
> combo.  Also the first time I've had headers that needed slip joints to be 
> installed.
>
> FYI.... These headers were already on the car when I bought it and 
> unfortunately Tom Dawson died in 2009 so I believe Dawson Racing Headers 
> died at the same time.
>
> After reading on the internet it seems that some people have good luck 
> sealing the slip joints with high copper content RTV silicone.  Which is 
> what I'm planning on trying.
>
> First thing I discovered last night is I couldn't get a socket on any of 
> the header flange bolts, and could only get a box end wrench on one of the 
> bolts.  Luckily and open end wrench was sufficient to undo the others 
> although movement was very limited.  I'll probably check a tool store and 
> see if a thin-wall socket will work.  Also considered modifying a box-end 
> wrench by heating it up and bending it some, plus grinding off excess 
> metal around the box-end.  Maybe a modified wrench is what I need.
>
> I did get the #3 slip joint tube removed easy enough, but the #4 tube is 
> still in place as I need to also remove the valve cover so the slip tube 
> can slip up past the exhaust port.  The cast valve covers are larger than 
> most and the extra overhang is just enough to keep the #4 slip tube from 
> sliding up far enough to separate from the rest of the header pipe.
>
> So.... have any of you experience with slip joint connections on header 
> pipes?
>
> George