A&C header / pipes issue

cobrabritt83 · #1 (**permalink**) 09-05-2023, 10:51 AM

I've noticed on my A&C kit that my side pipes are pulling away from my headers that slide into them. I've noticed this kit does not allow for any flex in the exhaust system. I thought about welding flanges on the header and the side pipes so when they are slid together, they can be bolted so they don't come a part. The only issue I see is the way the side pipes are mounted to the frame there is no flex for the exhaust to move when the engine is running. I think this will eventually crack the header. Has anyone else with this kit found a better way to hold the side pipes to the headers so they don't come apart and leak, and a better way to mount the side pipes to the frame so there is flex in the exhaust system, so a header won't crack?

saltshaker · #2 (**permalink**) 09-06-2023, 07:45 AM

you can buy tabs from summit that weld on each pipe and secure them together with a bolt
Jon

Imlumpy · #3 (**permalink**) 09-08-2023, 09:27 AM

I found stainless band type clamps in the right diameter, bought 8 of them , plus it helped seal any leaks at the slip joints . They were on Amazon .

CoyoteCobra · #4 (**permalink**) 02-23-2025, 04:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Imlumpy

I found stainless band type clamps in the right diameter, bought 8 of them , plus it helped seal any leaks at the slip joints . They were on Amazon .

I am curious - which clamps did you get? I have my oxygen sensors in the side pipes and I think I am fighting erroneous readings from the leaks at the slip joints. I tried some clamps but couldn't get them to fit quite right and I think I still have some leaks.

Speedwaypj · #5 (**permalink**) 02-23-2025, 09:02 AM

This is how I attached my side pipes. Not on the road yet so I’m not sure how well it’ll work.

Imlumpy · #6 (**permalink**) 03-02-2025, 02:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CoyoteCobra

I am curious - which clamps did you get? I have my oxygen sensors in the side pipes and I think I am fighting erroneous readings from the leaks at the slip joints. I tried some clamps but couldn't get them to fit quite right and I think I still have some leaks.

These , from Amazon , 8 of them .

bkozlow · #7 (**permalink**) 03-02-2025, 04:55 AM

If that is a nylock type nut you are using with the plastic insert it will not do well with the heat generated by the exhaust system, suggest you use a lock washer and nut with a shorter bolt.

BillK

indianamoon · #8 (**permalink**) 03-02-2025, 05:23 AM

Re-did my side pipes a while back and posted here:

Sidepipe evolution

These have isolation bushings and brackets that will really work. Nothing on the side pipe connected directly to the frame and the side pipe is free to move about just a little. Feel free to email me if you like.

Hope this helps.

Pat