Choosing the right 440 Dodge exhaust manifold

[fireball440]

My original exhaust manifold has finally worn out. It had a little leak at warm up and then  it would mostly go away after
the engine was warmed up. Yesterday taking it out for a short trip it started to make a lot more noise. I noticed it was cracked
and is missing one bolt. I did some research on replacing it. The best price was found on Ebay for $99.00 I also found one
at NAPA for $289.00. [The question that I have is this.  How do I know what one is the best to buy. I am concerned that the
new on on ebay is some kind of replica made in China using inferior metals. They state lifetime warranty. That usually means
the lifetime of the company not my vehicle. Are there any companies that you know of that can sell me a quality manifold. I do
not want to have to replace it again due the broken bolt issues. Any help, imput or advise would be appreciated

[russmehl]

In 2005, just prior to a 5000 mile go round, I replaced both of my cracked 440 manifolds with Ebay versions. I also used copper gaskets. I don't see the same vendor on Ebay, but they could have been bought up, gone belly up....
Both manifolds are holding up well.
I didn't use new bolts... maybe it would have settled in better.  For the first 2000 miles, I spent a few minutes every morning re tightening the bolts. And that was that... they have been trouble free since.
I always allow the engine to warm up and then cool down at idle for several minutes after coming off the freeway.
Keep in mind that several of the bolts go directly into the water jacket.
Good Luck!

Russ

[gromit440]

You may want to check out this link. 440 center dump is $60.   .. http://www.1aauto.com/1A/ExhaustManifolds/Dodge/MotorhomeM300-600 .. Hope this helps! Jeff

[The_Handier_Man1]

I have the ebay manifolds and used copper gaskets with new bolts.  After 6,000 miles no problems.  It's a job you only want to do once,  Les