Thoughts on new SSI Heat Exchangers

[true968]

So I have a pair of mid-1990's SSI heat exchangers on my 2.2 MFI car. One of them got significantly damaged a few months ago so I waited out the best deal I could and got a new set the other day. The craftsmanship looks as good if not better than the originals but the whole set seems "flimsier" than the original set. Like a thinner gauge of sheet metal is being used. I take the engine in and out of the car by lowering it onto a U-shaped dolly where 4x4's sit against the heat exchangers. I am frankly nervous that the new ones may not support the engine. Can anyone comment on the relative strength of the new vs. legacy SSI exchangers? Should I be nervous about resting the engine w/ trans on the heat exchangers? I never even had a second thought with the legacy ones. Opinions appreciated. Tom

[Nickelplated5s]

Weigh an old one and a new one. I wouldn't be surprised by a thinner gauge. Interested as I may upgrade to the same motor.

[70SATMan]

I’ve read the same comments on the Bird over the last several years. Because of that, I held out until a nice set of used originals came up for sale and then I pulled the trigger. Currently not installed, I could weigh mine and post the data.

[Marek]

Weigh an old one and a new one. I wouldn't be surprised by a thinner gauge. Interested as I may upgrade to the same motor.

weigh 5 old ones , Then you can compare not a single one

[Marek]

Hi Guys

Its no secret , that I work at Jp group / SSI
and I can assure you 1000% the new ones are top notch , and not seen with the bare eye , but in details improved alot

dont look at 8 year old ones , where they used less spot welds

its all now taken care off. with big improvments like less welds on the tubes , due to 5D tube bend technology , gives a better air flow etc

you also have to think of the steel delivery back when john was making them , who knows what he got, if he got a steady delivery every time
Not saying he did anything wrong ,

thats why dont look at just one and say ohh this is thinner , thicker , look at a few

and I can asure you all is made on the same tools , machines, yes even the same spot welder is doiing its job , everything is made to johns org specs , thickness etc
and for sure not in a worst quality ,

Visit SSI on instagram SSIexhaust

Marek

[Nickelplated5s]

Thanks Marek. I get weighing for an average But I doubt any of us have 5 or 6 sitting around. I did see a set at Walker's swap meet but passed. NIB but seller was asking more than list price. About 50% more.

[Longballa]

I use the new larger diameter ones and they are good. You can set your engine on a cart or piece of plywood no problem. I put a moving blanket down then plywood on top of the Harbor Freight hydraulic cart. Works perfect.

[Nickelplated5s]

Longballa, you are local. Get in touch and we can drive. I'm North of you. That said OP has a 2.2 as I do. Your 3.5 would want the bigger ID's.

[Longballa]

Either way it will be fine with smaller ones to rest on a cart or pallet. No big deal. Nickelplated5s, we drove yesterday to the coast. When roads are dry we're going. I'll send you a pm.