Potential problem with aftermarket midpipes

[DucHead]

I have the Marving midpipe (from Spareshack) on my '05 S4R.  The Marving has a mounting tab on the right side that bolts directly to the engine, whereas the OEM midpipe/udder has a rubber grommet with bushing washers (to absorb vibration). 

Well, the Marving mounting tab on my midpipe gave way to fatique stress recently and broke in half.  Not a huge deal, as the pipe is secured at both the horizontal cylinder, and at the S-pipes.

I fabbed up two stainless steel "s" shaped pieces and welded them to the end of the broken mounting tab on the midpipe.  I drilled and then filed holes in the mounting tabs to receive the OEM grommets and bushing washers.  Here's a few pics:





I made a little too much space for the grommet and washers, but it'll work.  Any aftermarket midpipes that bolt directly to the engine might have the same problem.

[Duc Fever]

So you think to avoid this issue one should install a rubber grommet between the bracket and engine when installing aftermarket midpipes? 

[c_rex]

Nice save!   

[55Spy]

I have the same mids and the bracket from the factory is wretched.  Nice save on the OE style isolator.  Might have to look at that.

[DucHead]

So you think to avoid this issue one should install a rubber grommet between the bracket and engine when installing aftermarket midpipes? 

Not between the bracket and engine, but through the hole (which will need to be widened substantially) in the bracket. 

You will also need washers with flanges, which when inserted into the grommet form a bushing through which the mounting bolt goes. 

Both the grommet and the bushing washers are part of the midpipe mounting in the OEM udder/midpipe.  If you don't have these, I'm sure either Lowe's or McMaster Carr will.  If you're desparate, I'll drop a set in the mail for you.