TA Performance Race Headers cross over headaches

The more we discuss I feel it is becoming more and more apparent the crossover pipe being cut, or not made correct is the issue.
 
That is a cheated cut or bend.. its a No No .. if this was done on a jig .. never could have happened.. maybe its a fluke or the fabricator was having a off day .. but the match up with the vband and mating pipe isnt right


I think the cut was performed on the band saw and was not straight. It was welded on straight to the pipe but doesnt have enough "meat" to enter the header. I have constantly commented about this issue but most have said the sealing surfaces should be adequate to make a positive seal. I am glad people are starting to understand.
 
I think the cut was performed on the band saw and was not straight. It was welded on straight to the pipe but doesnt have enough "meat" to enter the header. I have constantly commented about this issue but most have said the sealing surfaces should be adequate to make a positive seal. I am glad people are starting to understand.


The Vband does not provide the seal .. the internal pipe does ! when the
Pipes are fabbed and a jig made .. this is taken into account which is why typically there is a flex in the middle so the tolerance stack is absorbed there.. this avoids having to build 5 xover pipes depending on heads , blocks , etc etc
 
I bet I have over 20 hours farting around with this pipe, and over $100 in new bands and MULTIPLE gaskets. If this new x over gets the issue solved I will be glad it is fixed, but at the expense of my time and cash put out...it's a little frustrating to say the least. I'll remain level headed :) I produce parts too, so I have empathy for some of the process and procurement pains that are involved. It's the only way to be I feel. Glass half full, glass half full :)
 
I bet I have over 20 hours farting around with this pipe, and over $100 in new bands and MULTIPLE gaskets. If this new x over gets the issue solved I will be glad it is fixed, but at the expense of my time and cash put out...it's a little frustrating to say the least. I'll remain level headed :) I produce parts too, so I have empathy for some of the process and procurement pains that are involved. It's the only way to be I feel. Glass half full, glass half full :)

Some of the sound you hear is also exhaust pulses reverberating off the headers ... stainless is known for this
 
Some of the sound you hear is also exhaust pulses reverberating off the headers ... stainless is known for this


100% agree and me and Dave Fiscus thought about this very point. I have a grommet that the speedo cable passes through that is not sealing well. It would be beneficial to get it sealed up. I used a bunch of no longer needed vacuum tubes and wiring off the old power logger that are no longer there. Engine bay noises could be more apparent with this "leak" into the cabin.
 
Just for reference this is what old ATR v bands look like. Sorry if this info has already been provided. Additionally look at the leak traces on the slip fit connector. This will get welded. Disclaimer: I didn't ceramic cost them white...
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Well the verdict is in! The new crossover was installed and solved the issue. I spent more time on the phone today telling Mike at TA my findings so he can be more advised on the results after we had the new crossover built. Again, he has been very helpful through this and took bits and pieces of my advice and will work with his mfg to make some subtle improvement, or should I say hold his mfg accountable to making sure ample metal stock is being able to insert into the female ends of the drivers header. I am glad the issue is solved!
 
Sweet, glad it worked out and nice to see the vendor stand behind his products

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Good to hear!

Now, go out and make that car run like a scalded dog!!!!!!
 
I have a set here I'm test fitting.... the crossover is a bit too long. I can "pop" it into place but I would be much more comfortable if it would just fall into place.
 
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Before "popping" it into place...
 

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I have a set here I'm test fitting.... the crossover is a bit too long. I can "pop" it into place but I would be much more comfortable if it would just fall into place.

Like many aftermarket parts are just "generally" fit or built for a stock engine, but when you mill the block, surface the heads, use alum heads instead of stock iron heads and other changes, a part built on a fixture may need some tweaking to fit these various applications.

The best method when installing new TA performance headers is to leave each header loose, and fit the crossover pipe. Then tighten the bolts progressively for each side as well as the crossover.

Heat the engine/headers to operating temp for a short while, and final tighten the bolts.

After a couple heat cycles go over all the bolts again.

By this time, the headers will be "adjusted" to your application. :)
 
Thanks Nick
This is my 2nd set of these. My first set came from the first batch way back in the day. It's still going strong.
 
On another point which pertains to Toby's original post, I met up with Mike from TA at a Hot Rod gathering today, and he mentioned that the race header crossover pipe will extend further into the header which will make sure the sealing gasket will not be subjected directly with hot exhaust gas, and this will result in a much better, and longer lasting seal.

Mike appreciated working with Toby on his issue, as this has resulted in an improved product!

Most vendors appreciate feedback, good or bad, which results in better products for us all! :)
 
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