Merged exhaust fiting questions...

[bugnut68]

For lack of much else I could do today on my engine project due to awaiting parts, I decided to mock up my exhaust to see how it fits and if there will be any issues.  I've got at least one...lol.

It's a who-knows-what-name-brand merged header (1-5/8") I bought used off the Samba that has an O2 sensor bung welded into the collector, and my issue is this: I can't get the rear tin (the one that heater hoses pass through on a VW with heaters) due to one of the tubes' angle.  My question is this: are there exhaust brands out there that allow proper fitment of this piece?  Mine has the two tubes (for number two and four exhaust ports, respectively) kind of angling up, and I've seen other exhausts where the two pipes run more parallel to one another.

Another question: the tube slipjoint connection on the 3/4 cylinder bank side seems awfully close to the pushrod tube.  Has anyone else encountered any clearance issues here, or my likelihood simply a crappy fitting exhaust?

[Kaferdog]

Any pics of it...?

[bugnut68]

Not at the moment but will try and get some.  I'm thinking this exhaust will suffice for break in on the engine test stand but I will likely have to get something different (better quality) for placement in the car.

[bugnut68]

No fitment issues after all... snugged up, the exhaust fits the engine just fine, but there's still issues with getting the rear tin in place.  Not sure what I'll do in the long-term but I'm thinking I'll be able to run this engine during break in on the stand in the meantime.