Exhaust update

Progress was made on the left front exhaust, which needed to be rerouted around the radiator.  As mentioned in a previous post, a mock-up was first made using plastic pieces that were 3d-printed.  Thought we had one we liked, but later decided we wanted more clearance from the radiator and a straighter entrance to the muffler.  Once we were happy with the general design, the old exhaust tube was cut to reuse some of the stainless pieces.  We also bought a new stainless flange, donut, and temperature probe bung from Lockwood.  

Stainless tubing was measured and cut to duplicate the plastic prototype.  They were then sanded and cleaned, and carefully tacked to duplicate the prototype that we made in plastic.  

Welding stainless has some of its own challenges as heat control is more important than standard steel, and purging the inside of the tube with argon during welding is also necessary to avoid oxidation on the backside of the weld.  I purchased a dual-regulator for the argon supply and fitted a silicone tube to it which runs to a silicone plug inserted into one end of the exhaust.  The other end has another plug with a small hole to allow argon to flow through the exhaust.

Ed prepping to tack up another piece of the exhaust

Plastic prototype held next to final tacked tube

After several adjustments (had to grind some tacks and re-tack to get the shape right), the new pipe shape looks and fits great.  The temperature probe bung still needs to be attached, and then full welds around all joints need to be made.  Loops for the exhaust springs will be welded on last.

Hours: 18