Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) which manifold

[SPatyna]

This ? has probably been asked before , and i might have missed the answer. I have a CTD 1994 12 valve, originial owner 80,000 original mi. I am aware of the exaust manifold cracking over time , and maybe cracking the head ear. I monitor mine often and so far so good. I would like to change it though before damage occurs. Which in anyones opinion is the best replacement one to buy? I've heard BD or ATS are both good , except one doesn"t come with new bolts, is this true and which brand of manifold would be the best in anyones experience. ---- Thanks Steve.

 

[Curious Dave]

I went with an ATS years ago and have never had a problem since. Before that I was losing bolts and gaskets.

 

[snappy]

I went with ATS. It came with bolts and gaskets. Fit and finish was good but it was a pain to adjust it to fit the head.

 

[Curious Dave]

When you get a 3 piece manifold you would be best ahead to slather the connections with anti-seize and assemble it against the original manifold. Bolt them together and then use a straight edge to make sure your new assembly is flat and not warped. Then you should be able to bolt it on directly with no problems. I did mine that way and it went on first time with no problems. Maybe I got lucky?

 

[DPashko]

I have a BD on one truck and an ATS on another, both came with bolts and gaskets. the BD one was more expensive than the ATS. Both seem like really great products. The ATS did need porting on the turbo side. The BD could of used a bit of porting but I never bothered because the truck im running it on does not have a ton of perfomance upgrades. I did have a Diesel power source one but it was for a 24v. I sold it to a friend and he hasnt had any problems with it and likes it, I dont think it required much porting either. They are the least expensive ones i have found. I was going to buy one for a 12v but at the time he did not them cast yet.

 

[MLee]

I have the DPS and its been on since the end of Feb. Went on a 2500 mile trip pulling my 5'ver and the bolt torque was where they were set on rechecking. Pressed together ready for install, gaskets and bolts. Had to by the turbo gasket and bolts. Drilled and taped for the 1/8" probes. Did save some bucks.

 

[SPatyna]

Thanks all for the replies, still not sure which to buy though, 3 piece or 2. --S. Patyna

 

[JMcCoy]

The ATS and BD are both three piece. I believe the two piece are for the '03 and newer cummins. I have the ATS. It came with bolts and gaskets. It did not come with turbo nuts and studs. I had to reuse my old ones. I was not happy with that. I did a large amount of porting to mine. It did line right up to my head with no adjustments. I notices the turbo would spool up quicker. I am very happy with manifold. I would set aside a few hours to port it out some. Good luck.