I think part of the reason my manifold kept cracking previously is this:



As you can see, the wastegate (Tial 44mm) is maybe a millimeter away from my motor mount. I think when the engine was torquing it was hitting that wastegate and pushing upwards, which then put pressure onto the manifold.

I've already got a torque damper coming in the mail, and have plans to shave that nub off of the motor mount with a dremel. I'm not sure if this will be necessary, but I'm considering shaving the top hat of my wastegate down a bit with my belt sander for more clearance. I'm trying to play this as safe as possible because I don't want to deal with more cracks or screw ups on my manifold.

Is there any reason that's a bad idea? I feel like I've heard of people kinda doing this before, but wanted to make sure.

 

I would think the 2 objects would more or less move as one.

The only downside would be the strength/flex against the wastegate spring itself. But I don't know how thick the tops are made, and if you are using a heavy spring in the gate.


It sucks as an option (as far as cost goes), but you could always replace it with a MV-R gate. They are about .6" shorter overall.

 

My tuner/shop told me the two pieces should move together as well, but I think I can see a spot on the wastegate where contact has been made (a bit hard to distinguish as I bought this wastegate used and it was already scuffed up).

I'm interested in hearing other opinions. Right now I'm saving this as a last resort option if I still don't feel like I have enough clearance after everything else is bolted in.

 

This should not be your issue. There is a small gap there and the motor mount plate is bolted to the engine so the whole thing moves together.

I would not shave it. You are Alonso running the old trial 44mm waste are called the v44. The new trial 44mm gates are called the mvr and are much shorter in height. I would just buy a goal McRae and sell your old v44 on eBay. You will only be out $150

 

I just looked at a spare mount I had. Yeah, I would just cut that square nub off and be done with it. It should give you ~6mm extra clearance.