Anyone else have this problem?
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Junior User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 81
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From: oregon
Anyone else have this problem?
I just acquired a 78 f150 that needs a little tlc but other then that is fine. One of the problems is what appears to be an exhaust manifold leak or at least it sounds like it. It only makes the sound when the engine is working above idle. I am asking because I am considering getting a header for it to fix the problem. Where is this leak most likely coming from? Could it be from a crack, a gasket, or worn emmissions equipment? Also will the header reduce or increase my horsepower, torque, and gas milage, if so how much. Everything else is stock and I plan on leaving it that way except for the exhaust system which I still want to be somewhat quiet. Thanks for reading!
Elder User
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 772
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From: Glen Burnie Maryland
Start by tightening up on all bolts for the exhaust manifold at the head and at the exhaust pipe itself.
Get some "GM TOP END CLEANER" or Ford Equivalent (do they make such stuff??) and follow directions. Look for smoke coming from exhaust other than tail pipe end. You'll find your leak and clean the combustion chambers at the same time.
As for headers DON'T Get a 87-up split manifold and go from there. Rumor and seat of the pant's testing shows no difference or so little as to not make the headers worth it. And the Split manifold is cheaper (get them at the junkyard.) Walker makes a 2 in to 1 pipe ......#45166 that will eliminate dual converters and you use a CATCO HIGH FLOW Converter (Summit has them). The ngo with a stock system from there or fab up a custom with a flowmaster or Dynomax. Stay away from Glasspacks.
Hope this helps
Larry
Get some "GM TOP END CLEANER" or Ford Equivalent (do they make such stuff??) and follow directions. Look for smoke coming from exhaust other than tail pipe end. You'll find your leak and clean the combustion chambers at the same time.
As for headers DON'T Get a 87-up split manifold and go from there. Rumor and seat of the pant's testing shows no difference or so little as to not make the headers worth it. And the Split manifold is cheaper (get them at the junkyard.) Walker makes a 2 in to 1 pipe ......#45166 that will eliminate dual converters and you use a CATCO HIGH FLOW Converter (Summit has them). The ngo with a stock system from there or fab up a custom with a flowmaster or Dynomax. Stay away from Glasspacks.
Hope this helps
Larry
Thread Starter
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Junior User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 81
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From: oregon
Thanks for the advice, they also make mopar combustion chamber cleaner which I think is the same stuff. It comes in a spray bottle and I always notice a sotp difference. Also I might be able to source a header for free from a freind's neighbor. If I do you think it would require more fabbing the the factory cast efi manifolds to plumb? Thanks Again.
Elder User
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 772
Likes: 0
From: Glen Burnie Maryland
Go for the split exhaust manifolds from an Effie truck. Cheaper than headers and not that much difference in performance. Plus you won't be replacing them every 3-4 years due to burn thru.
Super Moderator
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 34,504
Likes: 2,822
My ex and intake constantly loosen up in the front. Made some progress with new longer bolts, loc tite etc, now just the intake loosens up and makes it loose #1. Just so ya know.
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Junior User
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 81
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From: oregon
Thanks For The info. I have access to pistons header cam lifter rods bearings gaskets ported head intake manifold and 500cfm holley double barrel tach and aftermarket ignition all for $600 but I only want the header intake and carb. Do you think I should save up and take the deal or just get what I said I wanted. I don't plan on racing but just towing a small tent trailer during the summer for camping.
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