16 Valve Exhaust Manifold...

[swadnod]

Hi All ,got a bit of  a problem ,can see a crack on top of my exhaust manifold and don't no if I should remove and get welded/repaired or buy used/standard or get performance/4 branch .It is starting to get noisier so I have to decide soon,any ideas and is this a common problem on valvers.
Cheers Swadnod.

[Judderi]

I think the standard manifold is cast iron so welding will be out of the question. You can either get a second hand replacement or if your budget allows splash out on a stainless 4 branch and gain a few more horses in the process. I bought one of these. Be warned though, they are not easy to fit! Also you may have to upgrade your engine mounts as stainless manifolds do not like movement, they tend to crack.

http://www.awesome-gti.co.uk/shop/customer/product.php?productid=297&cat=255&page=1

[Gambit]

mine was cracked on my old 16v and i just filled it with gun gum when warm, and held no problems

just make sure you fill the crack when the manifold is warm and really work it into the area, that way it wont peel or crack after drying out

[Judderi]

Burnt fingers here we come! 

[VeeDubGTI16v]

you should be able to weld it i think. are driver manifolds cast iron as well? because i welded mine up when it cracked

[swadnod]

Thanx guys for the advice,I have been in touch with midlandvw and they have given me a reasonable price for fitting and supplying a used manifold and I think I will get them to put a downpipe on her at the same time,I do like the idea of gummimg the crack up,but I want to keep her for a long time and I think I should get it done now properly and then it should last a few years.
Cheers Swadnod.