Exhaust: Heat Riser

[Washtubman]

I have an exhaust leak out the side of the manifold heat riser shaft on my Hawk. Is the heat riser a necessity if the car won't be driven in cold weather? Thanks.

[Washtubman]

Also would like to know, if it isn't necessary, what is the best way to make up that thickness of the heat riser. Splice the exhaust pipe?

[DEEPNHOCK]

I would suggest, if yours is not cracked, to remove it, gut it, fill the shaft holes (tapped hole with bolt(s), JB Weld, etc.
That way you keep the spacing right for the pipe.

I also have seen people wire the valve open, and put muffler paste/high temp epoxy on the shaft holes to seal them up.

Fairly easy, and fairly common thing to do.
HTIH (Hope The Info Helps)
Jeff

[53commander]

I got a spacer from Dave T. I believe it was $20.00.