Folks

Chasing down information an turbo exhaust manifiold project for a not-really-datsun-related-but-kind-of project. (6.5l V8 chev diesel in 2001 GUII Patrol ute)

Got a couple of options.

Option 1 - I can buy a factory manifold from the states for about $150 landed.
The outlet points the wrong way, so I would have to cut the existing outlet off, and move it to the other end.
Ive heard you can weld cast with special nickel rods.
This should give me what i need for not too much. Estimated costs - $150 + $20 (rods) + $100 for stuff. = $270

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Option 2 - I make up a custom manifold with steam pipe. Im guessing ill need about $100 worth of pipe/bends, and $100 for the flanges to be cut(head & turbo). This is of course the hardest option, but has the biggest potential payoff.
Estimated costs - $100 (pipe/bends) + $100 (flanges) + $100 (stuff) = $300.

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Option 3 - buy a pre made, off the shelf item that fits for $1000.

Between a good friend and I we are reasonable welders and fabricators, so the custom manifold is possible, but neither of us has made a turbo manifold before so we dont really know what to expect.

Neither of us has ever attempted to weld cast iron before.

I dont really want to pay the $1000 for a manifold.

Any opinions or ideas?

cheers