Sidepipe brackets

[Tim Brewer]

I've purchaced a set of new pipes and had to weld a new bracket to my frame. My question is if my engine is rubber mounted and the pipes are solid mounted, what will happen over time to my exhaust system, will it end up cracking? Is this about the same setup that everyone else has? And do I have anything to worry about?
Thanks, Tim

[dlampe]

I used some rubber bushings to help with the vibrations. I don't think I would mount them to a metal mount without a bushing of some sort. You might try something like a swaybar end link bushing. They sell those at most auto parts stores and they are cheap.

[392cobra]

Tim,
You need some isolation on the sidepipe mounting.It is a matter of when not if you will break the bracket off your pipes mounted metal to metal.
A lot of guys have broke theirs off even with a rubber insulator.

Most have cured the problem with engine torque straps.
Rob at Keith Craft Motorsports in Plano made me one with heim joints.The engine doesn't torque over putting stress on the pipes or motor mounts.

[Jack21]

The engine should be mounted as rigidly as you can get it to prevent it from twisting. The exhaust must be hung as loosly as possible to brevent engine torque from flexing it. This will result in work hardening in the area of flexing, with cracking and leaks.

Energy Suspension makes polyurethane engine and transmission mounts that substantially limit engine movement over conventional rubber mounts. The engine doesn't torque to one side and push the sidepipes against the body, or flex the exhaust system.

The rear of the pipe is suspended with a bracket off the turnout with a bolt, and rubber bushing between the frame and exhaust bracket.

Result, no flexing.

[dbaker08723]

For what its worth....

My side pipes bracket was welded to the pipe and bolted rigidly to the frame. The drivers side pipe cracked (right at the weld)
I called the manufacturer (Lone Star) and they said to put about 3/8" or more of sheet rubber between the frame and bracket...

I had the pipe repaired, put in the rubber and so far so good.

I took the pipe to a place that manufactures Tuna towers for fishing boats... they are really familiar with this kind of work..

good luck....