Exhaust heat wrap - does it work?

[Farmer42]

I replaced my manifold for an MSA header a couple of months ago but noticed that the heat it the engine bay has significantly increased. I couldn't and still can't afford to get the header ceramic coated which I understand is the best way of stopping some of the heat.

The question really is in the post title. I am thinking of heat wrap instead but don't want to waste time and money if it doesn't work very well. If it does work what is the best stuff to use - fibreglass or titanium (or other)?

 

[Matt Berry]

Did my manifold before putting it back in. I’d say it’s worth doing as it does keep temps down. I used the wrap from Funk Motorsport and it was spot on. Definitely soak it in water before wrapping as it makes it a lot easier to do

 

[Ian]

It does work, pretty well, been using it for over 10 years now.

 

[AliK]

Just a word of caution - this topic seems to have two camps:

1. Those who swear by it and it makes perfect sense as to why

2. Those who think it causes long term failure of the manifold / cracking of the metal.

I found a good cheap first step was to improve the heat shield and it reduced 90% of heat related issues I had with hot carbs.

Having ceramic coated my MSA header, I found a difference but can’t say there was a massive difference- heat soak is still the real issue.

 

[status]

Had one of those headers on my 240 with the rest of the msa system and didn’t have any problems,yes heat shield important. Had my current header ceramic coated,inside only cost about £250,got it off some French bloke that appears on here

 

[Fairlineguy]

When I last enquired with Zircotec about ceramic coating I received this reply.
Seems the cheaper polymer coating reduces temp by put 15% where as the plasma coating up to 25%
im guessing a good wrap will afford up to a 15% reduction


Volcanic Range - A polymer ceramic application, this will reduce the surface temperature of the exhaust by up to 15% and is suitable for temperatures up to 1,050C. The coating has a smooth finish that is between satin and matt in appearance and is available in a choice of black, silver, titanium, tungsten grey, gold and green colour options. The coating has a 1 year guarantee (road use only). The cost to coat your manifold is £286.49 ex vat and shipping.

Primary Black - This is a plasma applied ceramic solution that will reduce the surface temperature of the parts by up to 25%. This is suitable for temperatures up to 900C and comes in a matt black finish with a slightly rough texture, The coating has a 1 year guarantee (road use only). The cost to coat your manifold is £477.49 ex vat and shipping.

 

[Wee Stevie]

Another option, albeit pricey for manifolds, would be hard lagging of a fomable insualtion material. Something that companies like Thermo Met offer.

A friend enquired and was looking at about £800 to get a 2JZ manifold done, so I guess that would be ball park for the L series as well. Maybe a little cheaper as the runner lengths will be a lot straighter and shorter.

 

[Ian]

. Those who think it causes long term failure of the manifold / cracking of the metal.

Can see why this could be an issue. But I've run in on my Civic for at least 8 years on the same manifold and have had zero issues. Also run it on the bike and Datsun and zero issues so far.

Another option, albeit pricey for manifolds, would be hard lagging of a fomable insualtion material. Something that companies like Thermo Met offer.

Its the best option, but it is pricy. I'll be getting some RB bit done for the Datsun, but I can't afford to do it all so I need to decide what is best. Going with Turbo housings at the moment.