Lancia Beta Forum

Hi all.

Please see photo attached which is the bracket for the down pipe and bolts to the block I believe.
The question I have is whether there there is originally any rubber dampening involved when it is fitted or are all the parts just bolted metal to metal?
I can't find any pics in the Haynes manual but assume the base of the bracket bolts the the block and then the other end clamps the down pipes?
Thanks
C

Hi

I think just metal to metal, rubber would not survive the heat and you would need some sort of insulating tape. Although a debatable subject, I used wrap on my down pipe to try to reduce the heat soak into the rack.

Peter

Thank Peter. That was my thinking re the rubber too.
C

Hi
Rubber would pretty much defeat the object of the bracket assembly. Its purpose is to confine the downpipe to reduce the stress/movement on the exhaust flange. This helps prevent gasket failure and the dreaded blowing sound that results.
Secondly is relieves the twisting pulling stress that comes from the weight of the exhaust system and cracks the pipes away from the welded flange.

Without this you will be forever replacing/repairing the gasket at the flange along with snapped studs and shorten the life of the Downpipe. 
It’s a very undervalued component.

Hi

Just to add to Ian’s comments, having a short flexi in the first section of the exhaust also relieves the stresses involved between engine and exhaust. Obviously worn engine mounts will increase the problem.

Peter

Thanks both. All very valued insights.  Much obliged.
C