Exhaust Pipe Bending

[donchiotos]

I am working on my 66 Alpine V6 that I would like to construct 2 inch dual exhaust. My question is; has anyone ever bent 2 inch OD exhaust pipe without kinks? I have tried several times, with sand in pipe, WD40 on dies and pipe, and still have same results. The pipe bender I am using is the stadard 12 ton bender that I bought at Harbor Freight. Is there other benders that someone has used, that didn't cost more than the car is worth? If so where can I get one? I'm slowly coming to the conclusion that I will have to take it to the professionals to do the job. I would really like to do it myself if at all possible. Thanks, Don Chiotos

 

[alpine_64]

Don,

The equipment to mandrel bend pipes is not cheap, and thats why many exhausts places dont have it, and why it costs more, but if you are going to go to the effort of a nice system, and especially if stainless just spend the $ on it, it will last and you will be happy.

 

[64beam]

Hi Don,

Another option is to purchase pre-made stainless steel bends and make your own exhaust system. I know you can buy these down-under, so would not be a problem in the states. If you can TIG weld stainless steel (or know someone how can) get the bits and do it yourself or as Michael stated, spend the dollars and get it done professionally.

Regards, Robin.

 

[jumpinjan]

First of all, you have 2" OD tubing, and not pipe (2"ID), so the pipe bender dies are too large in diameter to bend tubing. I have seen many people make this mistake in purchasing those Harbor Freight benders.

 

[V6 JOSE]

I know it would be fun to be able to say you did it yourself, but when it comes to doing it without kinks, you would be better served if you took it to a specialist. You won't spend as much as if you buy the equipment to do it correctly yourself.

Jose