TR2/3/3A TR-3A cracked exhaust manifold

[n2stom]

Hi all, looking over my TR-3A eyesterday I noticed the exhaust manifold had a pretty good size crack. Has anybody had success with a weld repair or should I find a replacement? Anyone have one to part with? thanks Tom

 

[Geo Hahn]

Looks like you're not getting anyone who has tried this so I'll pass along a comment from a respected source that was on the archives of another forum...

=======================================================

Manifolds are tough to properly weld. Here's why:

1) The metal is cast and heating it will make it tend to warp, thus the fit after the weld is iffy.

2) Two different metals (the manifold, and the Welding rod) are hard to get to stick together with any degree of permanence. As the engine warms up the two metals heat up at different rates. This causes one to expand more than the other and try to come apart.

 

[Simon TR4a]

I would second Geo's comment; there are new welding sticks for welding cast iron, but I have heard this is a not a reliable solution.
(I am not a welder, so I am passing on second-hand information here.)
You might find a used one or look into a header from Moss or elsewhere.
Simon.

 

[Adrio]

If you can't get your fixed, let me know as I may have one in my pile of left over bits. Just email me if you wish.

 

[TR4MAN]

Thr trick to welding exh manifolds is to use a nickle welding rod. Any good welder can do this. The thing to do is find something solid you can bolt to. You secure the item and let it cool in place. All that said, I wouldn't think tr3 manifolds are that hard to find and getting a good one is a whole lot easier.

 

[Earl]

I have no idea if it will work, but just before you buy a replacement try JB Weld. Let us know if it works.
Good luck

 

[Geo Hahn]

I'm real sure this is one job JBWeld can't handle. As I recall it will turn into a white powder at these temps.

 

[Guest]

Absolutely, JBWeld is a no go. I had the exhaust manifold and the head welded on my TR3 some years ago and they held well. IMHO, it all depends on the skill level of the welder. What have you got to lose?

Bill

 

[n2stom]

Thanks All. I reckon I'll attempt to find a replacement. The welders available to me don't seem to enthusiastic.
thanks again for the info
tom