Stainless Works Header Warped

[Dmod81]

I was going to install my new stainless works headers, and as I checked the driver's side header for straightness, I noticed that it was warped by .045" in between #1 and #3. Each port is straight, it's warped with the straight edge across the whole flange though. Will it still seal?

[HAWAIIZR-1]

I would call Stainless Works. But you could also try these gaskets: http://www.speedassociates.com/SCE_G...-SCE-9438.html

I don't have any experience with it, but I'm going to order a set for my set that is on their way next week.
Best wishes.

[Marc Haibeck]

It will seal just fine. I always grind down the flange surface of the outer bolt ears about .020". That will reduce the warpage about .010".

Install bolts in all of the holes. Tighten the bolts on the ports with the most warpage first. The bolts will pull the flange flat.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Hello Marc,
So is this warpage common on SW headers?

[Dynomite]

I was going to respond to this with essentially what Marc described. I have two sets of SW Headers and to get that flange straighter/flatter than what is described by Dmod81 or perfectly straight would be almost impossible without planning the flange surface on a milling machine after it is welded up. The Flanges are relatively easy to press to the Head exhaust surface with the Header Bolts and I am sure after a few runs get HOT enough to reduce the internal bending stresses caused by the Press Fit (Bolting).

I would not describe the issue as Warped SW Headers but rather a normal tolerance associated with welding on a jig table which is of no significance when bolting the rather flexible flanges to the inflexible Head Exhaust Surface. This is a situation of Close is Good Enough and .045 inches is pretty good

[Dmod81]

Thank you all for the replies. I will continue on with my install. Then on to the corsa install.

On a side note- I found no less than 12 leaks in my old exhaust on the front cat welds. Also found that the installer blew through the pipe while welding it up (trying to weld it up?). There was slag and some welding rod welded to the inside of the passenger cat.

[Marc Haibeck]

Yes, that's a normal flange on a Stainless Works header. They are all like that and I have never had a problem with a leak. Tighten the bolts from the center to the ends three times.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Originally Posted by Marc Haibeck

Yes, that's a normal flange on a Stainless Works header. They are all like that and I have never had a problem with a leak. Tighten the bolts from the center to the ends three times.

Okay, thank you. No issues with my original set of SW headers back in 2003 and I don't expect issues with the set you modded for me; I will check before install out of curiosity.