Engine J boxes

[green912]

Anyone know if the J boxes are available in the aftermarket, if so how much?
Also, I have a hole in the tube that goes to the front of the engine (in the J box assembly). Can I get away with patching that (welding in a short piece of tubing, or replacing the tubing section) piece? Is it under exhaust pressure, or is this part of the hot air system?

Also, what is the deal with the vertical "smokestack" looking part of the heating system?
is this usually deleted by owners, or is this something good to keep ? the thermostatically activated flapper system is something I am restoring, but if it is routinely removed, I'd like to know and why.
cheers
Kevin

[mrandall]

Kevin,

There is a used set on ebay (powdercoated) for $80 but it now. May be worth a look.

[jac912]

Verticle pipes I think originally coupled with the funnel-like air cleaner covers to pre heat the carbs so they don't ice up. Maybe also helped the engine maintain temperature in the winter. I could use them up here but risers and funnels are long gone.
Jim in Ma.