Why is this so difficult to get done?
Why is this so difficult to get done?
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calibrax

Original Poster:

4,788 posts

233 months

Wednesday 24th August 2011
quotequote all
I have a problem with my car (MG ZT 2.0 Diesel), sounded kinda like a blowing exhaust, but I have a stainless system. It turns out the exhaust manifold is actually cracked and needs replacing. I found out about this last Friday - I had my "between services" 7,000 mile oil & filter change done at Kwik-Fit, and I asked them to have a look to see what was blowing. Of course, this wasn't something they could fix.

So I went and booked the car in for today at my usual garage. Took a taxi home, and a few hours later the garage called me to say they need the car for a few days! redface

I'm very busy with work and need my car (90 mile daily commute), so I've told them to leave it for now and I'll pick it up shortly. Not very happy at having to waste money on taxi fares today! I told them when I booked it I'd need it back the same day, and I even re-iterated that when I dropped it off this morning. You'd think they would have at least ordered the part and allowed a couple of hours to fit it... not exactly going the right way to keep my business. mad

Anyway, I know it can sometimes be hard for garages to get hold of these parts, so I've managed to source a second-hand manifold and it will be delivered to in the next week or so. Can anyone recommend a garage in North Kent/Medway who would be willing to fit it in a single day? I just want my car fixed, and I'm quite happy to pay top rates for it to be done properly.

So frustrated right now!

jas xjr

11,309 posts

261 months

Wednesday 24th August 2011
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Could the manifold be welded up where it is cracked ?

NiceCupOfTea

25,523 posts

273 months

Wednesday 24th August 2011
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try Mark at Freelance Mazda in Chatham. cheap and very good, thing he does other makes.

SuperHangOn

3,486 posts

175 months

Wednesday 24th August 2011
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Exhaust manifolds can be a nightmare job if the bolts or studs are badly corroded- not careful and one will break off in the head. Choose a careful, patient looking mechanic


turbopug

285 posts

175 months

Wednesday 24th August 2011
quotequote all
SuperHangOn said:
Exhaust manifolds can be a nightmare job if the bolts or studs are badly corroded- not careful and one will break off in the head. Choose a careful, patient looking mechanic
I agree. I took a 325i in to fit a gasket in the manifold. Should have been a simple job but I spent a full day at it drilling and tapping.

It's also worth ordering a new gasket, new studs and nuts and make sure the mechanic puts copper grease on them when he's building it back together.