Thermal Insulation & Protection
Keeping heat in the exhaust
Exhaust manifold and pipe heat wrap, with stainless-steel retaining clamps: by keeping heat in the gases, they lower the temperature in the engine bay, while the hotter, faster-moving gases evacuate the cylinders more effectively.
Protecting everything around it
Heat sleeves and socks, insulating tapes and films, and insulation panels protect components near the exhaust - fuel and brake lines, wiring harnesses, spark plug boots, the airbox, and the firewall. A reflective surface should be installed facing the heat source; a sleeve fits over the part being protected, using the next size up to clear the fittings.
What length of wrap?
Allow for one-quarter to one-half of the width to overlap on each turn. A 50 mm wrap quickly covers straight pipes; a 25 mm wrap works better around the tight bends of a tubular manifold.
Installation
Apply the wrap to a cold, clean manifold, keeping it taut, and secure the ends with stainless-steel clamps. Wear gloves and long sleeves: the fibers irritate the skin. The wrap will smoke during the first heat cycle; this is normal and disappears after a few minutes.
