My original MK1A manifold was cracked between cylinders 3-4, so this may be the problem.
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Just check the manifold were it joins the exhaust to be doubly sure though, my Janspeed is an absolute git as far as this goes.
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I have to re-do the joint every 1000-1500 miles.
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There is no flexi on the Janspeed
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(just a spring joint) and I think the torque mounts on my car need replacing, which isn't helping.
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TBH the manifold is pretty easy to do yourself, I think, if I remember correctly, you only need to remove one cover to get at the nuts that hold it on
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(sorry if not!).
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If you have another manifold coming, and the small bolts are seized, then you can just shear them off to remove the covers, there is no other way, if you get really into it, you can drill and re-tap them
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Undo the manifold nuts that you can reach from above, then jack the car up, remove the exhaust and then the others are pretty accessible, you will need a long-reach 3/8 drive socket though to reach in between the manifold.
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Make sure you clean out the grooves on the manifold to exhaust joint and put a small amount of exhaust gunge
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(with the new alloy rings) as you re-assemble it.
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I would estimate this shouldn't take longer than an hour to do, so possibly the
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"financial reward/pain" ratio may work in your favour
![Wink ;)](./images/smilies/icon_wink.gif)