metal fatigue!!!
 

haven't been able to work on the car much for about two months (damn kids), but i found the exhaust leak:

http://www.lithic.org/tmp/broke.jpg

i was running the '85 california manifolds and a monstercraftsman trap oxidizer substitute pipe. in this arrangement the turbo is cantilevered out front and, clearly, that bracket was not enough for the job. it seems the bracket failed and then the test pipe. i get the impression that there was supposed to be another bracket somewhere else which i never owned.

Alec300SD was kind enough to find me some W115 manifolds and a replacement bracket, so in a few more days i hope to be back on the road. in that scheme the turbocharger rests right on the exhaust manifold, so there is much less leverage involved and the next bracket should last a bit longer.

W115 or W116 manifolds?

Sixto
98 E320s sedan and wagon

Bricktron purchased a W115 and a W116 manifold: a W115 longrunner intake (MB part number 617 141 02 01), and a
W116 non-EGR exhaust manifold (MB part number 617 142 06 01))

I have a uncoated spare set of the above manifolds, if someone needs them, send me a PM.

The photo is of the ceramic coated ones currently installed in 'Desert Rose'.http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/...engine-bay.jpg
See my thread for more info and photos.

Wow Aaron! I sure hate to hear that one! At least you're going to a simpler setup. Be sure to post some pics.

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