ok, heres some facts, just b/c they aren't in the original post and they are getting lost in the middle posts ; )

1. Im running the Hahn FMIC

2. Manifold cannot be moved, ie pushed out

3. Dropping the 1/2 rad, as ive found more often then not, 2.4T guys experience overheating/Higher then comfortable temps

4.I will not be running a hood.

5. Id like to avoid wrapping or coating the header, as i got SS for a reason ; ). however, i would be open to wrapping the outter runners to protect the Ic piping and the Coolant area. im wondering if there will be any issues with that as far as how the manifold reacts to it?

6. Im not modifying the manifold by moving the WG, as that would prolly void my warranty with he fab'er.

I know thats alot of restrictions, but im trying to isolate the problem and keep it simple without changing too much, as it introduces a whole new set of challenges.

slog, im going to try your original suggestion, of welding an elbow on. That should give me something to work with..

D: id would have to bring it out, not lower it, it would hit the starter even more if i just lowered it, but i dont have alot of space to bring it out either, plus it might look funky, however, its deff an option. and as for power.. i built it to make alot lol... i cant really think of a weak point that will keep me from going past 400+.. it will be all in the MS tuning lol

you can always trust a dishonest man to be dishonest, honestly, its the honest ones you need to look out for. you never know when they will do something..stupid