Chocolate Manifolds & alternatives

[lucozade]

Read so many threads on the subject of manifolds my head now hurts. It's clear that the original manifolds had an in-built defect. My 1 year old 2004 3R has had loads of problems with the manifolds.

11,000 miles (2 weeks out of warranty) - back manifold cracked. After much deliberation the dealer agreed to weld it because I no longer had any warranty to cover it.

13,000 miles (yesterday) - front manifold cracked. Been advise my only alternative is a replacement.

I don't mind paying for wear and tear items when they expire at a reasonable mileage/timeframe. However it seems that this particular part has been flogged to death on here for it's inherent design problem. Something (IMHO) Noble should be showing a reasonable amount of concern for.

Alternatives:

Plans Motorsport (£2000)
Vegantune (£2000)
Noble (M400 - double skinned version) - £????

Obviously i was never made aware that i was going to have to shell out this much after only 1 year for an exhaust component so be aware - any potential buyers.

A few of you have got systems fitted. Can you please detail them here, pictures if possible, so that we can use this thread as reference.

I hope to be able to have a look at these system when I come along to the Owners day on Friday. Before spending this much money I would like to see what I'm getting

>> Edited by lucozade on Wednesday 26th October 10:24

[ThatPhilBrettGuy]

I thought the M400 ones were about £140+VAT

[DanH]

Keep an eye on your turbo gaskets too. They get damaged from the same exhaust movement as the manifolds, and can lead to damage on the lambda sensor if not kept tip top as I found to my expense!

If you are having the manifolds out, definitely worth renewing these. Vegantune were going to fabricate up a batch that were more resistant last time I spoke to them (when I had an M12).

[alex s]

I had the same problem, i did speak to Matt, and he is in the process of having some cast manifolds made, however mine were so badly cracked i couldnt wait, and went for the M400 manifolds, doubled skinned m12 manifolds, at around the £140 mark each.
I agree it is pretty poor that not only do they all seem to fail, but they also charge you extra for the upgrade!!

[washy]

lucozade - have you discussed this with the factory? I'm surprised to hear they wouldn't do anything to help you so close to the warranty end?!

[lucozade]

washy said:

lucozade - have you discussed this with the factory? I'm surprised to hear they wouldn't do anything to help you so close to the warranty end?!

Yes and got nowhere. I was just as surprised and disappointed. Don't want to upset anybody though as the car is fantastic.

[jipsom]

My rear one was welded a couple of months ago, after 9,500 miles. Pretty poor (and so was I after forking out for that).

I agree that the factory should take more interest in something which is obviously an inherrent problem; especially as we are all prospective long term Noble owners. I'd call it looking after your investment(s).

Evn if they could offer the fabrications that Vegantune mentioned to supplant the fault, that would be something.

[gizard]

IS the Vegan Tune one the whole system from engine to tail pipe? and what is the cost excatly - is there a warranty and will the honour it if you fit the exaust yourself?

[mc101]

Mu understanding is that the Vegantune system does not include the manifolds ....

[gizard]

mc101 said:

Mu understanding is that the Vegantune system does not include the manifolds ....

What, for it's 2K plus price tag - that's ridiculas...

[mc101]

Check with Richard M -- I had the same discussion when my 3R ate both its manifolds .. and the same "suprise" over the price/no manifolds discussion

[gizard]

mc101 said:

Check with Richard M -- I had the same discussion when my 3R ate both its manifolds .. and the same "suprise" over the price/no manifolds discussion

Sorry I don't understand what you mean can you elaborate?

[mc101]

I mean £2K and no manifolds ... it did sound nice on another car that was there tho ! (and looks great compared to the factory unit)

[AMG Merc]

mc101 said:

I mean £2K and no manifolds ... it did sound nice on another car that was there tho ! (and looks great compared to the factory unit)

They told me £3K (but maybe that included VAT and your quote doesn't?!).

Upside is it should last for as long as the car does!

[mc101]

It gets better no :-)

I plumped for a replacement factory one as I rarely keep cars for >12 months!