Exhaust

Technical advice Q&A
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Stevemorris
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#1 Exhaust

Post by Stevemorris » Fri May 29, 2026 9:01 am

Hi all, bit of a question really regarding exhaust manifolds…

My car has the S/S 6 branch manifold as sold by Robey, and whilst I understand the benefits of this type of system I actually prefer the aesthetics of the std vitreous enamel manifolds. I have heard that they crack if not run in properly etc, and know that non enamelled versions are available of course. The 6 branch on my car is also linked to a full SS system.

I wondered if anyone else has the same 6 branch manifold and has ever considered doing the same?

The downpipe section of mine is touching the torsion bar I think as it knocks on start up, and that’s easily remedied by moving the engine on its mounts but it does seem tight. Am I right in assuming that if I were to buy standard exhaust manifolds and down pipes that they will match the existing system?

Anyone got any thoughts or had experience of the same?

Best regards,

Steve.
1973 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow
1965 Jaguar ‘E’ Type FHC

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mgcjag
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#2 Re: Exhaust

Post by mgcjag » Fri May 29, 2026 9:33 am

Hi Steve....the original type cast manifolds do give a performance enhancement over the SS headers....info on the forum if you search....assume that no aftermarket part will be a perfect fit....and match up exactly to what you have....enamel does crack....does the warm up work...maybee for a while...what guarantee does the supplier give?....the exhaust is close to the torsion bars and takes fiddling with to get it all fitting ok....Steve
Steve
69 S2 2+2 (sold) ..Realm C type replica, 1960 xk150fhc

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Gfhug
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#3 Re: Exhaust

Post by Gfhug » Fri May 29, 2026 10:24 am

As was stated in previous times, if the manifold enamel was still in good condition after a few thousand miles then the car wasn’t being driven properly :bigrin:
S2 FHC Light Blue
S2 OTS LHD - RHD full restoration

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rdaustin
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#4 Re: Exhaust

Post by rdaustin » Wed Jun 10, 2026 8:25 pm

We're planning to use our original exhaust manifolds. I've learnt that a solution to the rain problem, and the heat damage to the bonnet problem, is to add a bolt-on (eg removable) "shield" over the top of the manifold and under the louvres that diverts water away from manifolds. Need to work out a pattern then make it (happy to share details once proven out!). Our plan is to get the manifolds re-enamelled... does anyone know a good UK enameller? Ideally in the Midlands, but for a reputable supplier, further afield is fine. Kingfisher are close by but I have no idea as to whether what they do is any good or not.
Thanks all
Rebecca

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bitsobrits
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#5 Re: Exhaust

Post by bitsobrits » Thu Jun 11, 2026 12:05 am

So...what's the point of having them re-enameled if you are hiding them under a rain shield?
Steve
'65 S1 4.2 FHC (early)

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rdaustin
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#6 Re: Exhaust

Post by rdaustin » Tue Jun 16, 2026 7:41 pm

The heat/rain shield is a simple bolt-on/bolt-off job so only needs to go on when travelling. Once at destination, can be easily removed to reveal the lovely manifolds....

Any ideas on reputable enamellers?

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Gfhug
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#7 Re: Exhaust

Post by Gfhug » Tue Jun 16, 2026 7:53 pm

So your plan is to block the louvres when driving? Where will the heat go that the louvres were designed to vent? As for rain, unless you are stationary in pouring rain then at any speed it should not enter the louvres, imho. Put the blocks in place if you intend to wash your car with hot exhausts perhaps :shrug:
If you’re trying not to have the new enamel ruined then don’t bother driving the car, just put it on a trailer!
S2 FHC Light Blue
S2 OTS LHD - RHD full restoration

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Series1 Stu
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#8 Re: Exhaust

Post by Series1 Stu » Tue Jun 16, 2026 9:12 pm

A bit hostile, Geoff. They're only exploring options.

I wish I knew somewhere to get enamelling done. I think Zircotec were mooted at some time but I can't remember whether they could do them in the standard grey colour. Or even if they're still around.

Good luck in finding somewhere to get them done.

Regards
Stuart

If you can't make it work, make it complicated!

'62 FHC - Nearing completion
'69 Daimler 420 Sovereign
'93 Jaguar X300 XJR basket case
'93 Audi 80 quatrro Sport

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