SPF Sidepipe alignment-new installation

[Pman1961]

Today I installed the headers and sidepipes on SPF 2423. The right side sidepipe aligns well yet the left side needs to be pulled in an inch or so at the tip. Things I've done...removed original engine and tranny (351w 385hp crate TKO500). Installed 408w TKO 600. Headers were replaced using the 402 style or AFR header. Sidepipes were modified at PE. I've heard this is not uncommon and there is some sort of process to pulling the pipe in its proper location. Anyone with experience or have good advice? The car has not been fired with this setup other than dyno and I'm hoping to fire up the car tomorrow but I don't know. Thanks in advance.

[Tim Brewer]

Are your header to sidepipe slip fit of flange?

[Pman1961]

Header to sidepipe is flanged. I've heard if I'm not mistaken that when the pipes are warmed up you can somehow pull them in with a strap of some sorts. If this is true...would like to know what was the strap and the method or apparatus used to pull the pipe into position.

[Tim Brewer]

I wouldn't try that, when at running temp. they're not that hot for a perfect bend. I would remove the front flange bolts and loosen the rear bolts. Then adjust the pipe correctly and measure the gap created at the flange. That's how much the flange will have to be corrected, (rewelded).

[Pman1961]

Definitely not what I was wanting to hear after being down for 9 months and good driving weather on its way. To pull it in an inch or so at the tip or rear mount would not create any noticable bends I would think.

[TKing]

I tried the "get the engine really hot" and bend the side pipe process and had only a little success. Most success was achieved by shimming the engine mounts (unequally) and sliding the engine on the slotted engine mounts to get the alignment close. Alignment was never perfect.

I think the pipe bending process worked a little, but I was afraid to go to far or worse yet have the pipe bend into the body. I installed the engine and shims so only 1 side was low and then jacked-up the low position pipe so it was closer to the body. I don't see how the strap method would work since there is nothing opposote the pipe to strap it too.

Tom

[JST4FUN]

PMan1961, I'm just finishing up changing the headers and side pipes on SPO2660. I encountered a similar problem with my right side pulled in further than I wanted. After some discussions, I decided the safest approach was a tapered spacer to go between the header flang and the side pipe flange. I had several smart folks tell me the bending would work, but honestly didn't want to risk it. Check CraigsCobras.com, he makes a tapered spacer for these cars. You may be able to get one made locally, but Craig has a lot of experience with these cars and Craig's matched the SPF flangs perfectly.

PM or email if you need more info.

Good luck!

[Pman1961]

Jst4fun..I appreciate the CraigsCobras website. Very informative. I see the spacers you speak of and which I am seriously considering but he does mention using a tie strap to pull the pipe that was projecting outward a little. How he did it I have no idea. I would probably cut a 2x- wood member to fit the profile of the pipe and pad it up to not damage finish and at the opposite end use a hydraulic jack laying horizontal and resting on an unmovable object such as a concrete curb and push until I reached desired results. I like others removed the shims under one mount and pushed the motor over to the right a little and the results are better but not perfect. Also, what is the minimum clearance sidepipe to fiberglass or paint should I acheive. I'm 1/2" clear on one side and 3/8" on the other to the top of the opening. The 3/8" side I could put a thinner shim to drop. The spacing of the sidepipes to the body were somewhat equal until I pushed the motor over and became closer on one side. I can see how the shims as noted in the CraigsCobras website could drop the sidepipe down for additional clearance.

[ken swart]

I have spf 2489, had the same problem when I installed the engine 5 years ago.
I followed the procedure in the Olthoff install video, it worked:
Get a piece of exhaust tubing (the piece I used was about 5 feet long) and a tie down rachet or comealong.
Run the engine @ 2000 rpm for a couple minutes to get the headers hot.
Turn the engine off.
Stick one end of the exhaust tube into the side pipe, and wrap the strap/cable around the other end.
Hook the rachet end to the tie down loop at the back of the car's frame.
Rachet the pipe in to just a little past where you want it.
Let the pipe cool down, and it should stay.
I recall my pipe needed to come in at least an inch, and up about as much, so I put a floor jack under it and jacked it up at the same time.
Of course you"ll want to protect the finish with wood blocks and rags.

[ken swart]

Just to be clear, it was the tip of the sidepipe that needed to come up.
Unless you have solid engine mounts, you want more clearance, at least an inch, on the passenger side.
This is because when you're on the gas, that pipe will lift.

[Pman1961]

Ken...do you have a link to the Olthoff video? Tried the Google thing and went to Olthoffs website with no luck. As far as mounts I have the poly mounts purchased from Olthoff.

[ken swart]

I have the video on dvd.
I had to pester poor Dennis Olthoff for weeks to get him to sell me a copy, I don't think it's a high volume item for him.
Anyway, give Olthoff Racing a call.
If that doesn't work, I can lend you mine.
I understand you can send private messages on this forum, but I don't know how that works.
I'll check the thread tomorrow for your response.
Ken

[Pman1961]

Ken...I know Dennis quite well. He was in Memphis a few weeks ago for Fred Rice funeral and celebration of life. I'll give him a call and if there is a problem I'll private message you. Ron a local Cobra enthusiats indicated the procedure as you describe but would like to view the video. Thanks very much!

[Hydramada]

Perry, just get that dang thing running! Give me a call tomorrow and we can discuss how you get that pipe lined up. No excuses..........next Saturday breakfast 2423 is gonna be there!