i have a 4.9 300 on a 93 f250. i hacked off the cats and was going to y the two pipes together but they are all kinda bent up to where a purchased y pipe may not work. if i build a y myself, how should i go about it? any other ideas on what i should do? thanks.
chris

 

I always make my own Y-pipes, it's really easy if you have access to a wire feed welder. I get 2 tailpipe turndowns with the inlet size you need to fit over the dual pipes, and the outlet size close to or the same as the single pipe. First step: slip one of the turn downs over one of the duals with the turn down facing the other pipe. Use a tape measure to find the distance between the two pipes and divide that in half, transfer this measurement to the turn down and put a mark on it to find where you need to cut it. Then use a small speed square (or something equal to that) to transfer the angle you need to cut it off...the line should run as close to parallel to the duals as possible. Repeat the same proceedure for the other turndown on the other pipe. Once you have them marked and cut, slide both turndowns over the pipes line them up as best you can and put a few good tack welds on them to hold them in position. Remove the assembly from the pipes and lay a bead of weld in the valley area between the two turndowns so it doen't move. Test fit the assembly one more time and ajust as needed. Next slide the single pipe over the adjoining ends of the turndowns (like this >=) trace around the end that meets the turndown ends. Move up about 1/8" for room to weld, mark it and cut the end off as square as possible. Slip the straight pipe over the end and tack weld it into place (again try to keep everything straight and square) do one last test fit on the truck, if everything fits the way you want it. Finish weld all the joints, let it cool before handling you can shoot a little high temp paint on the welds if you want also. And there you have it! Pretty easy I hope this helps, like I said I have made a few of these homemade Y-pipes it's pretty easy and they work great!

 

haha thanks a lot! i just had a shop make me a custom y today which cost me $25 labor and parts so i figured it was a pretty good deal. he made it just as you described! anyone who wants to make your own, follow Pkupman82's instructions. thanks again.
chris

 

Glad to hear you got what you needed, $25 not a bad deal! At least now you know how they go together if you ever need to make one again.