getting on with the riley
In the early planning stages of this project I decided that I wanted a tubular, tuned, competition exhaust system, but didn`t want the pipes protruding through the bonnet sides and running down the outside of the car. … It looks wonderfully evocative and “of the period” but represents danger to youngsters tempted to touch the shiny bits!
A good tuned exhaust system makes a huge difference to the way the car “breaths” and gives a very worthwhile improvement in performance. … Particularly when matched to a good pair of SU carbs and cams with hotter than standard profiles.
The manifold is a beatifully made, 4 into 2, into 1 system that curves downwards quickly enough to sit inside the bonnet. … I got it from a craftsman well known for his skills, but also well known for having a very long waiting list of customers. I ordered it early in proceedings so as not to be waiting when everything else was done. Expensive but worth the wait! … I also have had made some special stainless steel manifold nuts. These are 5/16″ BSF threads, but with 1/4 bsf spanner flats to enable fitting into the tight space next to the tubes of the manifold. They are also much longer than standard nuts. And new gaskets, of course.
You will see from the photos I have also coated the bodyframe with black, oil based paint to prevent the timbers absorbing moisture. … I notice a lot of vintage car bodyframes are left unprotected and wonder why?
beautifully made manifold with gaskets and nuts
Fits nicely under the bonnet
Tuned 4 into 2, into 1 exhaust manifold
Bodyframe coated with oil based paint
Almost ready for aluminium skin
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About the Author
Phil Smith is a vintage car enthusiast with many years experience of owning, restoring and using vintage, PVT and classic cars. A longstanding member of The Vintage Sports Car Club (VSCC), The Riley register and The MG Car Club. Makes he has owned include Alvis, Bentley, Lagonda, MG, Talbot and Riley, of course. Now retired, Phil satisfies his 'old motor urges' by competing in the MGCC Luffield Speed series in MG Midgets from the 60's and 70's. This blog will chart his return to vintage/PVT cars.
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E-mail: philsmith432[at]hotmail[dot]com