How do I Line up the Y piece to the manifold ?

[steve-V8s]

What is the simple secret to lining up the exhaust manifold to the Y piece ? I took off one clamp to gain enough room to remove the crank pulley. I have come to put the clamp back and the two parts are slightly out of line. I can put a large Jubilee clip round them and they pull together but can't quite get the proper calmp on. Will taking the down pipe to block bolt out help ?

[GreenV8S]

Depends which way they are misaligned, but you should be able to put a ratchet strap around both manifolds where the precats are and pull them towards each other i.e. squeezing them in towards the Y piece. If it's misaligned verticall you will need to twist the Y piece but the mounting rubbers should allow it to move quite easily. If it's misaligned front to back, you will need to loosen the clamp between the Y piece and the rear section to allow the Y piece to twist slightly.

[Big Ashy]

I have done this many times and find it easier to align one side up, fit the clamp and "nip it up", then with a suitable lever (long screw driver/chisel) between the chassis (protected with a cloth) and manifold, position the other side until they are aligned and clamp the second. The assistance of a friend at this point will make things a lot easier.

[steve-V8s]

Thanks Pete, as usual a nice sensible bit of analysis helps. Have to admit that I had lost patience with what I expected to be a 2 minute job. As well as getting it lined up properly I also ran a file round the outer edges to remove the surface rust. That made it a lot easier for the clamp to slide on.

[GreenV8S]

Big Ashy said:

I have done this many times and find it easier to align one side up, fit the clamp and "nip it up", then with a suitable lever (long screw driver/chisel) between the chassis (protected with a cloth) and manifold, position the other side until they are aligned and clamp the second. The assistance of a friend at this point will make things a lot easier.

It's far easier to pull the two side together than lever one side against the chassis, and this also avoids denting the manifold with your lever.

[Johno]

If you've not got a ratchet strap then a bit of rope twisted has been my solution . ..

Wire brush in the drill best way to clean them.

I do assemble mine with putty and grease in the clamp, never have issue with them leaking.

Also remember to tap down the clamp as you do it up, do not use the nut to pull it together, as you'll bust the bolt before you seat the clamp properly.