Attention Welders: How Does My Exhaust Manifold Look To You?

[RallyEclipse98]

I took off my exhaust manifold today and it's showing its age. Should I be concerned about the cracks to the heat shield or manifold? There are slight cracks where the exhaust runners connect on the top side of the manifold. The bolt holes on the lower heat shield are really cracked. I know this isn't a problem but could it eventually start to rattle and bug the heck out of me? And is there a way to clean the inside of the manifold? There's a lot of carbon buildup.

So basically I am asking if any repairs are needed or if I should just slap it back on. The car has 176k on the clock and its the first time the manifold has been taken off. Thanks, guys!

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[bryanwheat]

If it isn't leaking than i would put it back on and not worry about it.

 

[RallyEclipse98]

The thing is since the heat shield was on, I couldn't tell if it was leaking before I took it off. I don't want to put it back on and then see it leaks and then have to take it off again.

And what about possible rattling? And could I/should I clean the carbon out?

 

[bryanwheat]

There will be carbon buildup on the outside around the leak if it is leaking. Don't worry about the carbon inside, it is normal and would be a huge waste of time. The rattleing is likely the heat shield.

 

[bo0st]

It will need to be replaced if not it is only time until it cracks more.

 

[JRock20G]

Heat shield will probably start to rattle but welding a thin piece of rusted metal is not easy (but not impossible). and if your manifold is cast iron theres a whole pre and post heating process, special rods.. Might save some money if you've got the equipment but if not just get a new one but you manifold looks good

 

[99 gs iowa]

I wouldn't put it back on. Either get a new manifold, or else use it as an excuse to get a turbo manifold so you have to go turbo?

 

[WES_393]

I don't see any cause for concern. The heat shield is junk, but the manifold doesn't look cracked or show any signs of leaking. I'd at least pressure test it before trashing it.

For the carbon buildup, some solvent and a wire brush would clean out most of it. But like Brian said, it's not a big deal.

 

[RallyEclipse98]

I just threw it back on. Everyone here and the people I showed it to in person were pretty split. If anyone did want me to get it replace it was not because they could foresee it splitting, it was "just to be safe."

I don't drive the car that often and it if does split, it's not hard to remove and replace.