912E Thermal Reactors

[williala]

Since I don't live in an area that requires my 912E to pass an emissions test, I would like to do away with the thermal reactors. My question is are there headers available to replace the reactors? Thanks.

[WFBowen]

williala:
If you're looking for an actual performance header (cyl head to muffler) you'll have to dump the heat exchangers and shorten a 914 racing type header. The best you can do with a type4 while retaing the heaters is to go straight from the head to the exchangers. With the heat exchangers in place, there isn't room for an actual header system. I'm not sure how restrictive the thermal reactors are (compared to the right-angles downstream)and most people got rid of them for other reasons (especially heat build-up going back up the pipes to the head.)
Hope this clears it up for you. Additionally, I know you're not in a "smog" area, but try to keep your original system intact and modify a vw/T4 or 914 system, as the original will be worth $$$ in the very near future, especially here in CA.
Bill.

[JP Noonan]

Replacement "Y-Pipes" are $250, I bought some about 6 months ago from performance, or parts werks. Shortening 914 headers, I dunno, but there are lots of people putting T-4 motors in Bettels and they seem to use the mid 70's bus HE's with the tin striped off. Not cheap but also not custom$$$