Header problem

[240ZMan]

I'm putting my new MSA 6 into 1 header and exhaust on and am running into clearance problems. I'm surprised because I had heard that MSA's was just a bolt-on. The issue is the outlet is just a little too high. The results in the pipe that connects to the outlet hitting against the transmission rear cross member. If it was about 1/2" lower, I think all would be fine.

So I've tried "rotating" the header on the head as I tried to illustrate in the picture. But in order to go any further I'd have to remove some material from the flange as it's hitting against several of the studs right now. Of course, I hate to start grinding on something brand new, especially since I've got the ceramic coating.

So my question is if any of you have used the MSA headers before how did you resolve the clearance issues.

And if grinding is the answer, give me some advice. I've never done that before (save using a file by hand).

[Ed]

I had the same headers on my L28 with a 5speed. I don't remember any clearance issues. They bolted on real nice.

[Phacade]

I too had no issues with mine. Perhaps there was a defect in yours or its an altercation? Call MSA and perhaps exchange it?

[240ZMan]

Ok, must be something with mine. I'll have to call MSA.

[zeiss150]

dido with my header:ermm: Although I do have a 6 into 2 but still. I'd call Motorsport you shouldnt have to grind on your NEW $300 header.

Good luck

Matt-

[Ken]

I had the same problem when I installed a MSA 6-1 jet hoted header into SilverBullet240Z. The two bottom bolts (5&7 oclock) fit and could be snugged up, however, the top bolt (12 oclock) could only tightened to a point where there was a 1/2 inch space between the flanges. A noisey drive to the shop to have the connecting pipe flange fitted. Worked fine and no further problems.

Header is mounted normally on head with no twisting.

Ken

[240ZMan]

Ken, I think you're describing exactly my situation. So it sounds like you had them weld the 1st piece of muffler pipe to the flange for connecting to the header so that it could go down at more of an angle? This would be angling down from the engine towards the rear of the car? Did that cause any problems with the other end of the pipe hanging down too low?

Just wondering if you spoke to MSA and what they said as well.

[Ken]

Dan:

The first muffler pipe with flange connection was cut on a slant (/)

and the muffler pipe was cut to match, so that the rest of the system was aleigned properly, then welded together. Nice neat job and it looks custom. Car still in winter storage so I can't snap a photo.

I did not talk to MSA re this initial problem......

Was sure loud while driving to the shop!

When I get the car out of storage, Wed., I will take a digital photo and post.

Ken

[240ZMan]

Thanks Ken, that makes sense. And that would solve my issue as well. Just kind of frustrating to have paid them over $400 for a header and muffler system that's supposed to be bolt-on, and then need to go spend even more money to get it kluged.

In fairness to them, I'll call them when they open and see what they can do.

Daniel

[dhoneycutt]

240Zman...I have the same problem with my system from MSA:angry: How did you fix yours? What did MSA say? I emailed them and have yet to hear from them.

[dhoneycutt]

Ken... Have you gotten the car out of winter storage yet? I would very mcuh like to get a photo of how the shop fixed your exhaust system. Thanks in advance and if you need to you can email it to my email address which is

dhoneycutt@bresnan.net

[240ZMan]

Thought I'd give an update on how this all worked out. Turns out the supplier of the headers to MSA had a problem with the jig they use to bend and weld the pipes. They built up a second header, coated it, and got it to me. Also made some changes to the first pipe behind the header as well as the angle of the flange. It went together pretty well, and last weekend I had a local muffler guy make a few more bends as it was hanging down more than I liked.

I also added an 18" glass pack as it was just a bit too loud for my neighborhood. Sounded great to me, but I knew my neighbors wouldn't have the necessary sense of humor:finger:

It's a great combination now: quiet at light throttle, and still has a good deep sound when opened up.

I had it on a local track on Saturday. 5 sessions and all is still solid. What a hoot! If you haven't taken your Z out to a race track you need to find a way. It's the most fun I've had in a long time! Brakes were a weak spot, but I expected that. Probably my next project...