Upgrading the exhaust system is a critical step in the Bogus 2 Mini restoration, and we're excited to share our approach to fitting a high-performance, efficient setup. For this project, we've chosen the Maniflow ‘big-bore’ Long Centre Branch (LCB) exhaust manifold, known for its reliability and performance gains on Mini engines. Follow along as we guide you through the process with some practical tips and expert advice.
Exhaust System Install on Bogus 2 Mini
Choosing the Right Exhaust: Maniflow LCB
For the Bogus 2 Mini, we specified the tried and tested Maniflow big-bore LCB exhaust manifold, a popular choice for its ability to enhance engine breathing and boost performance. If you're considering a similar upgrade, it’s important to note that some non-standard cylinder heads may require custom-made exhaust manifolds to fit correctly. Find your perfect Exhaust - Browse the range >
Practical Tip:
When fitting the LCB to a Mini engine, keep the bottom Y-piece loose until the entire exhaust system is fitted. This approach ensures that everything aligns properly before tightening. If you need help selecting the right exhaust manifold for your engine setup, contact our team for expert advice on finding the perfect match.
Wrapping the Exhaust Manifold
To improve performance and reduce engine bay temperatures, we've opted to wrap the exhaust manifold. Wrapping increases exhaust gas temperature, promoting faster gas flow, while simultaneously reducing the heat radiated into the engine bay, protecting sensitive components.
Preparation: Start by soaking the exhaust wrap tape in water. This makes the tape more pliable, allowing it to stretch and bind tightly around the manifold. For this project, we recommend using a 1-inch-wide tape, which provides better coverage, especially around tight bends.
Safety First: Always wear gloves when handling exhaust wrap due to its glass fibre content, which can irritate your skin. If you need high-quality wrap and safety gear, check out our selection of exhaust wrap materials and accessories here.
Applying the Wrap: Begin with a double wrap at the cylinder head end and work your way down the manifold. Enlist a helper to maintain a smooth feed of the tape. Use temporary cable ties to hold the wrap in place as you progress, but replace them with locking wire once the wrap is secured to prevent any movement.
Securing the Wrap: Make sure the wrap is as tight as possible to prevent it from loosening over time. Secure the ends with locking wire at the middle and the end of the run.
Pro Tip: Keeping the wrap tight is crucial for both performance and durability. If you need assistance or have any questions about wrapping your manifold, contact our experts for detailed guidance.
Fitting the Maniflow LCB to the Engine
Once the manifold is wrapped, it’s ready to be fitted to the engine. For our Bogus 2 project, we’re using a crossflow head, so spacers are needed where the inlet manifold would normally be on a standard Mini 5-port head. These spacers should match the thickness of the exhaust manifold flanges, ensuring that the nuts and washers tighten squarely.
Important Note: We found that the typical LCB manifold securing bracket, which clamps around one downpipe with a single steel tab bolted to the differential housing, can sometimes pull the bolt from the diff casing. To avoid this, we use an additional baseplate with two bolts to distribute the load more effectively. If you’re facing similar issues, reach out to us for alternative solutions and installation tips.
Selecting the Exhaust System: Maniflow Single-Box Stainless
For the exhaust system, we chose a big-bore Maniflow single-box, centre-exit stainless steel exhaust, known for its robust construction and excellent flow characteristics. This setup is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a sportier exhaust note without excessive noise.
Practical Insight: If you find the exhaust sound too loud, you can switch to a Maniflow reverse-megaphone system, which offers a slightly quieter but still sporty tone. If you're undecided about the best exhaust setup for your Mini, explore our range of exhausts or get in touch for personalised recommendations.
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Don't miss out on the rest of the Bogus 2 Series!
This blog series is your go to for a guide to taking your Mini from a bare shell to a road-worthy classic. Check out the rest of the series for tips and advice from our Mini Experts for every stage of your Mini restoration!