mk1 exhaust manifold 'C' springs

[sportline]

Hi

Anyone got any idea on the best way to put these back on.  I have just replaced the exhaust manifold and fitted a new sealing ring between the manifold and the downpipes and spent the best part of 3 hours trying the fit the C springs back on, trying allsorts of different ways to get them on without risking smashed knuckles in the process.  

Finally managed to get them on, although it is now blowing through one side of the joint.  I did notice the gap on one of the C springs was slightly bigger the other (suspect it is worn and become stretched).

Alternativly, anyone know of any simpler aftermarket product available that replaces these springs.

[mk1]

This the toilet bowl type of manifold?. I have fitted them using a socket and a 10mm bolt with a nut, run the nut up the bolt to the top and put the threaded part of the bolt into the back of a socket (1/2 inch drive 14mm i think). Measure up the length of the bolt against a "c" clip and adjust the nut down the bolt so you will be able to fit the "tool" inside the clip (cut off excess threaded part that is poking out the bottom). Use the tool to jack open the c clip and fit when it is open enough and then knock the "tool" out. Hope this helps.
Steve.

[old_boy]

Horrible things!
I go to my local quik fit and let them do it for the price of a tracking job-easy.
Another thing i have done in the past is swap it for the MK1 gti 6 bolt type manifold and downpipe, again easy-assuming its a MK1 based car.

[sportline]

Thanks for the advice.  I'll try making a tool tommorrow (as suggested by MK1) and have another go, before leaving my baby in the hands of a quick fit fitter!

[vwsystems]

theres a special tool for doing that........ vw one

[richandhazel]

Horrible things!
I go to my local quik fit and let them do it for the price of a tracking job-easy.
Another thing i have done in the past is swap it for the MK1 gti 6 bolt type manifold and downpipe, again easy-assuming its a MK1 based car.

Easy if you can get the manifold
Still haven't got one

[vwsystems]

you'd be better getting a performance manifold and downpipe all in 1.....

[sportline]

That's a top tip from MK1.  Made up the tool as suggested...and it worked a treat.

Thanks all.