Hello MINIons,

So I received my sizable order on Friday from Way Motorworks. I was finally able to rip into last night and ogle over the goodies. When I got the bubble wrap off the Flashpoint MK1 header, the exhaust flange didn't look right to me. There is this odd lip from the flange to the header tubes...I attached photos below to help explain. I'm not really feeling this part I chose...the initial look is beautiful and well crafted. Am I messed up?
It seriously doesn't seem like something that should not have made it past QA.

Any insight from others that have this part would be greatly appreciated.




Stock Exhaust gasket against Flashpoint Header, small ports right?





Not lining up on the flange and the down tubes, why is there this much of a lip?





Barely a quarter fits





Quarter in stock exhaust gasket, for size comparison





Not quite 2.5"

 

Did you call way?

 

left a message...sending email as you read this.

 

`I think that, unless you;ve had your head ported, you will probably be unpleasantly surprised when you put that gasket up against your head. Many of the exhaust, and some intake, gaskets that I have seen for various engines (Yes, even BMW) ndo not match the ports very well. With some patience and time spent with a dremel, you can match/clean everything up.

Just keep two things in mind. First, that sort of work really does have diminishing returns. Second, and potentially most importantly, it is completely possible to open/free up your exhaust too much.

Match the head to the gaskets or vice versa, whichever the case may be. When you've finished that, match the flange on the header to the gasket. Bolt it together and enjoy the ride.

 

As mentioned, the gasket is almost always a bit larger than the actual port. This is to make sure that raised section on the gasket is being pressed between to solid piece (block and manifold flange) to ensure a good seal.

 

Finally had a good conversation with my 'local' mini guy, put my mind at ease with the runners not matching up with the flange and the reasoning of why they may be that way. Exactly what I needed to hear.

For as many of these headers have been sold, so i'm told, wish there was more feedback/reviews on this item. I'll be sure to provide a review once I've had it on for a bit.

Cheers all.

 

Unlike pipe, mechanical tubing typically used for exhaust tubing is always listed as outside diameter. Wall thickness will determine final inside diameter. That is considered a 2.5" exhaust outlet.