----- Original Message -----

From: Jeff Birk

To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM

Sent: 4/18/01 6:53:22 AM

Subject: Re: S S Exhaust installation
problem

 I have really screwed up on this cause the setup is insanely
loud.

   yeah, I had the same problem, turned out the flanges on the
pipes that

   connect to the head were out of angle never allowing the
flange to seal

   with the head.

 I guess I gotta take it all apart, put the metal gaskets in, metal side
to

 manifold....

   when i took mine apart, I sent it back...still waiting for
some

   resolution

 I need a drink, I just spent 4 hours doing that, and now I gotta take
it

 all back apart.

   a drink helps but so does a crow bar...hope you bought it from
a

   reputable source OTHER than S S as their customer service
is

   non-exhistent...I am at 12 months waiting for a resolution on
a

   merchandise return.

I was seriously considering an S S exhaust system to
compliment my new engine, but have heard more than a few negative comments about
their systems- from poor fit to non-existent customer service. And yet if you
got their site, they [S S] claim to be one of the leaders in the [hot
rod] world of exhaust technology. What's the story here? Anyone else have a
comment (good or bad) about these exhaust systems? Guess I'll stick with
OEM.

BTW- I will soon ( 1 month) have available a 2.1L engine
longblock (112k original miles) from my van when my new engine is
ready, assuming all goes well. It has zero leaks, and 120~140psi
compression, and I'll even throw in a 1.9L distributor and exhaust pipes less
cat and muff. Great running engine that has already taken me on 2k+ miles
of flawless adventures since buying the van in early March. I'm in the San
Diego, CA. area if anyone is
interested.

Regards, Michael Ramer, '87 Westy (no name assigned...yet)

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