304 exhaust manifolds?

[Hitman1881]

I have an 81 CJ7 with a AMC 304 and outside the frame fender well headers that run down the outside of the frame with what I am guessing are like glass packs and then they kick out at a 45* right in front of back wheels.
Well one side has and exhaust leek at the header collector donut , so I have started to think about doing something different with the exhaust. I would like to get it to the back but I don't think it is doable with the headers. I have done some searching but not really seeing what I want.
Should I go back to exhaust manifolds? If so any idea where I could find them? Or is there a better option for headers that would let me get inside the frame rails?
It sounds good but I would like to quiet it down a bit and get the noise and exhaust farther away from where you sit. The exhaust smell is fine if you are moving but setting at a stop sign you get some exhaust.

 

[Saddle Tramp]

I would go back to aftermarket headers that are inside the frame rails. Here is a kit that Pacesetter makes. I’ve not used this kit myself but have aftermrket headers that are inside the frame. This link is to the Pacesetter website so you can get all the facts but I know a better price can be had on ebay.

http://pacesetterexhaust.com/76-83-cj-5-6-7-exhaust-system-incl-headers.aspx

 

[Deerejeep]

Hedmann. Make inside frame headers.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[Posi]

I would go with the stock manifolds, they breath well, and don't create as much heat under the hood. They can be found new on debay or used on CL.

 

[hdgapeach]

I installed the set up you have now many years ago. Replacing the gasket at the collector / muffler joint has become a general maintenance scenario every couple of years for me. I've grown to accept it.

You have a CJ7 , which may give you a few different option for quieter mufflers with the header set up you have now since you have a little more length to utilize than I do (flowmasters maybe?). A short flex pipe between the collector and muffler along with isolating the muffler from movement might make your joint gaskets last longer. I considered doing that on mine but the chicken mufflers take up all available space.

If you do end up deciding to go back to the original exhaust manifolds, reply back to me or shoot me a pm. I still have my original manifolds. If you don't find some near you cheap, I'd be willing to ship mine to you for the shipping charge. I ain't gonna need 'em. I still enjoy having no ability to hear a radio!! You'll have to exercise patience, though. I'll have to dig them up out of the many piles of used parts I've accumulated over the years.

 

[Hitman1881]

Sent you a pm Hd

 

[hdgapeach]

Just sent you a PM about the manifolds (I think???). I found them and the casts are in good shape - i.e., no cracks and all the holes are intact like they're supposed to be.

The studs need replacing and one bolt is broken off flush at the collector and will have to be removed. I'm sure the threaded holes will need to be chased with a clean out tap.

Let me know if you don't receive the PM with the pics and I'll see what I can do to get that info to you.

 

[hdgapeach]

They'll be headed your way tomorrow, from the Post Office, finally.....
Took long enough, I know. Hope they get it done for you like you want.

 

[hdgapeach]

The manifolds should be in your area tomorrow. I really think that's optimistic considering the snow up your way but, hey, maybe the USPS is a little more geared up for that kind of weather where you're located.

Anyway, I sent you a PM with all the particulars, including a tracking number that may help keep up with weather delays.

Good luck with 'em!

 

[Hitman1881]

Manifolds came today. Thanks . I already have them media blasted. Gonna get the Broken stud out and get them surfaced tomorrow. Then to get them installed and and the exhaust done out the back. Hopefully soon it will warm up enough to get it out and about with the top off!
here's to you Hd great guy!

 

[ThisGuyUKnow]

I also have factory manifolds laying around if anyone else has similar needs.

 

[Hitman1881]

Looks brand new... Thanks Hd. Got them on this weekend and they worked out great!

 

[hdgapeach]

Outstanding! That's why I won't throw anything away. I've had those things in storage for nine years. Glad they worked out like you needed. They cleaned up great. A lot better than they looked when they left here!

Stay safe brother!