Mainifold AIR Tubes

[u2bdet]

Hi, can anyone tell me how to remove the manifold AIR Tubes ? Ive removed the Smog pump on my 81 to clean up the compartment...and the tubes look like they are welded to the mainfold ...otherwise its looking like outhouse plumbing :L
Thanks,Neal

 

[JohnZ]

...and the tubes look like they are welded to the mainfold ...

I believe the A.I.R. tubes were furnace-brazed to the tubular manifolds starting in 1980. :eyerole

 

[damoroso]

It'd probably be more cost effective to replace them with shorty or even full tube headers. The AIR tubes are stainless steel and welded in place. Additionally, the tubes go well into the "header" tube. You'd probably have to cut them off, drill them out and plug weld the holes. Plus you'd have to remove and replace them to get the job done. If you're not interested in keeping the car original, this might be a good time for a true dual exhaust.

 

[Copdogcorvettes]

Hi, can anyone tell me how to remove the manifold AIR Tubes ? Ive removed the Smog pump on my 81 to clean up the compartment...and the tubes look like they are welded to the mainfold ...otherwise its looking like outhouse plumbing :L
Thanks,Neal

It's a very simple matter. Just cut the tubes off with a hacksaw on the outside; then use a moto-tool or something like that to grind off the tubes on the inside. Once you have the tube clean off then have someone weld the holes up. After they are welded up grind the weld smooth; then repaint or have them power coated.

It only takes a few hours of work and is easier and cheaper that buying new headers. Also you don't have to modify your header pipes. I've done it and they work good.

Gary

SAVE the WAVE

 

[racerone27]

when i took my hoses off the exhaust manifold, i just went to the hardware store and got some pipe caps. just screwed them on. looks hokey, but works great. low cost, no time involved, and can replace with original equipment easily if you want too.

steve "pops" pastorino

 

[u2bdet]

Done!

Thanks guys ,,, just finished up with manifolds , cut off AIR tubes at base with a Dremel, plugged and sealed manifold holes just got to refinish them now , Oh and by the way this is because I replaced the exhaust with the true duals from Corvette Central ,,,,,sounds sweet!!