Mk1 GTi 1.8 8v - Stainless Exhaust Manifolds

Gents,

   after many different searches on the forum, I can actually find very little definitive info on stainless steel exhaust manifold options for my Mk1 GTi 1.8 8valve.  So far I have come up with the following:-

Supersprint - 2 types, one around £440 (part 322301 - 60mm race system) and one around £410 (part 883601)
VW Heritage - says top quality made in UK - £370
Torque Technique - £276
TA Technix from Kam Racing - £152 (same as the one supplied by classic-vw.co.uk
Autosprint Birmingham - £165.70

I want something that bolts straight on with no clashes or issues, preferably keeping well clear of the steering joint rubber boot.  Does anybody have any of the above fitted and can offer real advice as to the best option to go for.  I don't mind paying the big bucks for a Supersprint if it is really that much better, but obviously would prefer not to spend so much if it is not necessary.  Also, if I have missed any other options, please let me know.  I live in Northern Ireland if that makes a difference, and whilst we have a Longlife exhausts place here, I don't think they do manifolds.  But I might use them for the exhaust to complete the system.

Thanks
Peter

Hey, have you had any info, I'm also looking , finding it hard because the cheaper 1 seems to good to be true in my eyes.. 

Hi Pete

I have just fitted the supersprint 4 branch on my tintop and matched it up to a longlife stainless system middle and rear box.

I think you are always going to run into clashes with these systems and mine was no different. I wrapped the manifold with the heat wrap but it was 2/3 mm from the steering boot when fitted. My solution as well as others was to wrap the steering boot with heat foil and place a heat plate/shield to protect it and spread or avoid the build up of heat in this area. So far so good although I was going about with a fire extinguisher in the back seat for a bit… just in case!  

Hi Peter I have a ta technics manifold on my 88 cabb and also have heat wrapped it put aluminium tape on the steering gaiter and made a heat shield out of aluminium .same as the super sprint a little close back there , Do go to the effort of making a heat shield as I started to melt my last gaiter and is not pleasant and quite a worry.
Regards
Martin.

Thanks for this info guys. Which Supersprint manifold did you get Shughy? Sounds like with any of them I'll have to fab some form of heat shielding. It seems strange that the manifold cannot be fabricated so that it doesn't run so close to the rubber boot. Do you have any pics of your manifold & exhaust Shughy? Would like to see it.

Pete

Not sure exactly which code it is…ill have to dig out the paperwork. Have a pic of the part number too. I bought it about 3 years ago for half what they are now!

I don't have any pics uploaded yet but if you pt your email address ill send a few over tonight. 

PT sent Hugh.

I have a supersprint 322301. Its fitment was great at the header but has about 10mm gap between the uj boot.

The problem with these manifolds are they were really designed for left hand drive versions where the steering column is on the other side. 

I'm not aware of anyone that has changed the design to accommodate right hand drive vehicles. If I was to buy another manifold I would look for a cheaper alternative or get someone to make one that fits.

Cheers

Rich

This is how close the 322301 is :







I wrapped the uj with a heat reflective sheet but will probably add a metal sheet around the UJ as well but it will almost be touching the manifold!

Excellent pics Rich, many thanks for the detail.  Funnily enough, I was talking to Rich from Crazyquiff's the other day whilst buying some bits off him, and he explained the whole LHD issue with all these manifolds.  He also said they are currently working to start producing RHD stainless manifolds so watch this space.

I don't need it immediately so I'll just hold off for now until I see if someone locally could make one for me, or Crazyquiff's start selling theirs.