bracing has a lot to do with it, because it compromises the integrity and strength of the welds overtime, this isnt the only determining factor of the quality of a manifold by any means though.

when welding steel, stainless for example, it should be heated first...a lot of manifold builders do not cycle the metal through a good heat range before its finally done. this is VERY important to the longevity of the manifold. proper welding is a longer process than just keeping the arc at the front of the weld pool.

another huge factor is the grade of steel the manifold is made out of. 316 stainless when tig welded is VERY strong, and can withstand insane heat without corroding from the inside out like a lot of mild steel's and other lower grades

titanium equal length anyone? oh yea baby

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96 Black ESi
91 Red TSI AWD (RIP)
02 WRX


"turnin wrenches for nine hours in the pouring rain, just to get the beast up and running again"

Aerospace Certified TIG welder for Precision Castparts in Portland, OR.

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