MGB: Getting the CCE header off (HELP)

How and what wrench should I use to loosen the lower bolt on CCE header, the original style, , passenger side, mine has a crack in it and I need to take it off. I did not install it so I don't know how easy it was or hard to put it on or what #$%&@ the installer used when he was putting it on. I am sure we all know which one I am talking about, the middle tube bottom bolt,

Paul, use a long 13 mm wrench. from the bottom. You only need to get it loose enough to slip the header out. All of the three bolts in the bottom do not need to be removed, just backed off.

Send me a picture of where it cracked or...what ever happen.

The bottom bolt forward bolt is a bit tricky to. I cut and welded a wrench at a slightly larger angle which made it easier to get the bolt to turn enough to move to the next flat spot. Long wrench form the bottom is good.

Bill

Could not tell you of anything in particular, over a period of when I would of let off the throttle she would pop and gurgle, I had seen what looked like cracks but never paid much attention to it, the other day while the car was at idle I could feel exhaust around the pipe

Paul

Paul, let me know how can I help.
If you have them welded and you are please with them, let me know the cost.

Bill

That is such a kind offer, thank you. I was looking at an old post where you show a new header you are working on. I went out to the TVR and I don't think those would work. Clearance problem. Take a look at these better picture of passanger side. that little item to the right is the motor mount.
I am trying a high temp patch

Paul, it seems that it may be running a bit lean. I am guessing due to the color.
I have had mine on for 5 years and several long trips including TN in 06. with no problems.

You have plenty of clearance for a plate welded to the Y section.
Yes, the new headers would not fit due to the mount.
If you are not happy with the patch, let me know.

Bill
What happened to the new headers you were working on. I have not heard any news on their development or when you will have them ready.

Cliff, Brian (BMC) got a set in his car and hopefully he will be at the meet in WI.
I am waiting on Brian to post some pictures here like he said he would of the headers installed in the car for everyone to view.

I have all of the needed pices to make them. I will have to make some minor changes to clear the Crank positioning sensor on the FI cars as per Brian, but not sure.

For the Carb cars they fit with room to spare. I went and added a flange to the collector.

Hey guys, just wanted to show you a wrench I made for the center bolt (old design) or lower header bolts, I used bolts with a 10mm hex head though, this wrench was made from a Japanese motorcycle tool kit wrench that I heated up with a torch and bent in a sharp curve, I cut the other end off and then welded it to a short section of steel 1/2" square tube for a handle, it worked great at tightening those next to impossible lower bolts and from up top as well...

I also do agree with Bill, that crack could have been caused by a possible lean mixture condition, but leaking exhaust valves or a malfunctioning air injector system can also cause this, it would be a good idea to check this out or it may crack again after it's fixed...

Marks Garage...

That sounds great, Bill. My little MGB has a carb setup so I will be looking for the headers in the near future. Thanks

I used allen head bolts for the headers and a hex head ratchet to take the headers off the engine.

You are saying that you even used a allen head bolt for that lower center tube bolt??

I can't see how he could, no room to use anything but a 10mm hex nut on the lower center tube.
Ken

yes...they work fine...got them from "fastenal" "www.fastenal.com"

it doesn't require much room unless you are using and extended (beyond required length) allen

Bill

In your first post to me you say "You only need to get it loose enough to slip the header out. All of the three bolts in the bottom do not need to be removed, just backed off" Do you mean they are not holes as pictured on your site of the header, but rather like the gasket, that look like an upside down U, Just to let you that color you see on the header picture showing you the clearance with my motor mount is the metal patch I put on.

Paul, on mine only the center bottom hole is notched. All 5 others will need be removed.

Yes, Paul, yours have all three bolts cut out.
I was refering to the first photos Paul. Your 3.4 should have .060 jets or larger but no more than .065 and a 6.5 power valve.