I see AKRAM has installed a ATS exhaust manifold; viewed his photo gallery. Is this manifold worth the cost for a '03 HO CTD that is lightly BOMB'ed (very)? It appears that the ATS manifold has a casting mode where he installed the EGT probe. Considering upgrading to a 4 inch exhaust and possible Pier's Bomber Lite turbo.

Do fair amount of heavy towing and need to keep BD Power exhaust brake. Is the ATS exhaust manifold a direct replacement, or is some jury rigging required to get it into place with the exhaust brake? Any input welcome.

L8r,.............dogger

Days on; sweatin' in the Sahara Desert!!!!!

 

The manifold is a direct replacement. I don't know how it works with the exhaust brake though. I think it would be fine. This is also an easy install.

 

The main benefit of the ATS is that it is a 2 piece design. The factory manifold eventually shrinks and cracks from the heat caused by adding extra fuel. The 2 piece design allows expansion and contraction without breakage. The ATS does have a cast in boss for the pyro thermocouple, but you have to drill and tap it yourself. It's a direct bolt on. ATS manifold page

 

I say no, not for what they charge for them. The back three exhaust channels are a little different and the way they all come together at the collector is a little better. All designed to flow a little better than stock. If the price was about half of what they get for it, I'd say sure. Other than being a cool looking 2-peice design, nice EGT probe boss, and a great conversation piece, I haven't noticed enough benefit for it to be worth the cost. They need to drop the price in half. It is a bolt-on replacement though. Stock turbo and exhaust brakes work fine with it.

There are several companies working on a real header for our trucks that will give each cylinder its own channel to the collector. From what I have seen, these will be the way to go. They really look sharp. I'd wait. Shouldn't be too much longer.