Combat Wombat Exhaust Repair

[drbridge]

The pipe for my Combat Wombat is in really nice condition except for the header that is corroded through with numerous pin holes and too thin to weld up. I think the only fix is to replace the header pipe. I have been looking, but have not been able to find a source for any 1 5/8 pipe strate or bent in the required radius I would need. I went to a couple local muffler shops and they don't deal with that size pipe or know where to get any. If anyone knows of a source for materials to fix this pipe it would be a great help in my journey. Thanks.

[Bullfrog]

Do an online search for auto exhaust U-bends. I've found what I needed in the past by doing that.
Ed

[Dale]

One source is www.speedwaymotors.com Look at both U bends and J bends.

[viclioce]

It took me going to 6 different shops to find someone who could do a flare on my Wombat pipe & secure the exhaust nut. Turned out to be a friend of mine who used to own the Mieneke shop with my son in law’s brother. They took it on Tuesday & was ready the following day. Cost was just $40 and it fit perfectly! Victor

[drbridge]

So I found a U bend pipe on ebay that was close to what I needed. I also broke down and purchased a small oxy acetylene outfit. At the prices the local welders are charging for very average work I figure it will pay for itself with just a couple of jobs. Now the question, am I going to be able to actually weld with it. Well, I was happy with how the pipe turned out. Not the prettiest welds but not terrible either. I was pretty good at this stuff when I was in High school, but hadn't done any oxy acetylene welding in about 50 years. It was a little bit like riding a bike. I had to cut the u bend in the middle to put another section in to widen it and found a local parts store that had all kinds of adapter fittings and was able to make a manifold joint that worked well.
I am pleased that this pipe didn't end up in the scrap pile.I have another CW pipe that needs the same treatment and a Rickman project that will need some pipe mods, so I think this little torch is a good investment. Shouldn't have waited so long to get it.