Graham R wrote:
Regardless of where they are made or by whom, I thought they were all made of cast iron. Why the OEM and aftermarket people don't cast them from aluminium I don't understand (why; lighter, lower melting point so cheaper energy and tooling, despite the higher price of aluminium, better thermal conductivity) Maybe they'd last too long !
They are all cast iron, but their still can be quality differences in the iron composition, as well as the casting process (temperature control, pour procedure, controlled cooling rate, etc), so when comparing these aftermarket companies, it is best to read forums like this one to see what their track record is.
Lower melting point is exactly why they cannot be made from Aluminum. Aluminum melts at around 1300 deg-F. Aluminum also looses it's temper (it's hardness condition) at temperatures as low as around 700. Exhaust gas temperature coming out of the engine can exceed 1500 deg-F. Of course the manifolds are water cooled, but they would melt and/or erode right at the engine exhaust exit.
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"Knot Easy" 2000 Horizon 240 Volvo 5.7GS /SX
tow: 2017 Honda PILOT EXL-AWD
prev. boats:
'87 Chaparral 198CXL 4.3 OMC Cobra
'69 Jetstar 16ft Ski Boat, 115hp Yamaha
'68 Aluminum Jon Boat, 3hp Sears
'64 Water Wings