RE: Cracked EM

["Buchholz, Steven" <Steven.Buchholz@kla-tencor.com>]

> 2) I, therefore, consider finding a used two-piece manifold (I cannot
> afford a new one. I cannot, period). I understand that the two-piece
> unit doesn't warp and therefore buying a used one is fairly safe. Good
> idea/bad idea? Which Audi models was the two-piece unit fitted to?
> Would
> a manifold from a 200T20V/S2/S4 fit my 5K? Could someone please pass
> the
> p/n for the correct manifold to me?
> 
The 2-piece is supposed to flow better than the original OEM manifold.  

> 3) Fortunately, I don't see any broken studs (yet ;-) ). If all studs
> are intact, can I leave them in place or should I better renew them?
> 
I'm amazed to find people considering themselves fortunate that they've
got a cracked EM but no broken studs!  IMO I'll take broken studs
anytime!  I consider myself to be fortunate that both on the QTC and the
5kCSQW I had a couple studs break, and all I needed to do was to
resurface the manifold ... 

> 4) What do I risk if I drive the car in this condition? I can't hear
> any
> exhaust noise from the manifold.
> 
... I wouldn't be worried about a bit of an exhaust leak causing
something else to fail.  If you don't hear anything it must be a pretty
small leak ... and in any event most leaks sela themselves as the engine
warms up ...

... my $0.02 ... FWIW!
Steve