hey guys, just finished an uppipe/downpipe install this weekend. but the strange thing is that the uppipe (DCSports, from Steve-o) looks like it sits flush up against the motor?? Any ideas? Its not like it can go in any other way, being bolted to the turbo and manifold, there are no alternatives... see the left side here. there's tons of clearance to the chassis though.
I guess I'm really just concerned about two things: 1) The flex weave is abrasive, not sure if it'd damage the block beyond cosmetics. 2) Heat from the uppipe transfering to the block... ? this is an abnormal heating pattern. I'm kind of a n00b, but what is on the other side of the block wall that the uppipe is touching? Not the valvetrain, is it? I'm guessing just the cylinder..
ah... i wouldn't mind pulling it and swapping in a new one, but i need to go on a road trip next weekend! Russ has installed like a million of these things and he told me there's usually an inch clearance on all sides. It's not like I could install this incorrectly either, since it's fixed in space by the manifold and turbo. anyway, i've contacted AEM too and sent them pics. hope they have an answer for me. Their phone line was pretty good... I was on hold for 2 seconds! bad mods happen to good people
Return it and get something that fits better. There are lots of good uppipes out there like godspeed, perrin, hks, helix, ect.
aw geez. you guys are making me cry. what are your feelings on flex vs. non-flex? I might try to get an emergency purchase in and install a new one over the weekend before I attempt a 6-hour road trip.
My feeling is that it doesn't matter. I'm on 3 years with a non-flex Perrin uppipe, one look at that thing and you know it will outlive the car.
From what I have read (I am by no means an expert on this), if the install is done correctly, there is little chance they will leak. The non-flex are just more prone to install issues. My $0.02.....
hey Justin, I can do an install correctly! whether or not the pipe is made well is a different story apparently. *sigh*
oh no, you read my post wrong. i didnt mean you..i was talking about a non-flex have gaps on the gaskets.
haha, OK, sorry Justin, didn't mean to take it personally, but I'm just sad my install didn't go as planned. Now I have to drive my wife's Corolla to Chicago next week...I always feel uncool...then again, 40+ mpg is the silver lining!
Here is a good way to not get leaks, use 2 gaskets on the bottom flange and just crank it down. I have had a godspeed uppipe in my car for 4 years now, and I have no problems. Russ
i have the same up and there should be a little gap.....uno what happen to yours...i also got my up from steve
