Akra Install - Clamp Needed or Missing?

[IL8Apex]

Just installed the Akra Evo mid section. Everything went well, but I noticed that the "H" connection between the 2 post-header connecting pipes has no clamp. The schematic shows no clamp as well. (Look at area immediately after #7). Is this by design from Akra? Should I put a clamp there to minimize exhaust leak?

[BzsBimmer]

It's a good question as to why no clamp is needed. Mine doesn't have one and I've seen the EAS video of it being installed with no clamp there either.

Interesting thought as to why.

[dc779a]

I am just guessing here but it appears the two pieces of pipe slip together with enough overlap that there should be minimal if any leak, additionally, if this piece were clamped together the pipes would not be able to flex at this point. The engine is going to move and flex in the stock mounts and if the pipes were rigidly clamped or welded together here the stress of that movement would be translated elsewhere. I am certain Akra did this for a reason but I am not 100% sure why. Maybe this will spark some more conversation as I do not believe I have seen another system with this design.

[MilehighM3]

I've installed several of them, none of them have clamps there. Even the M6 setup doesn't. It could be for expansion or shifting of the engine, but that's doubtful since both side would move together with the engine. They definitely do not leak at that joint, even over time.

[IL8Apex]

There's definitely a leak, albeit a small one. 2 exhaust pipes connected in that manner without a clamp will always have a leak. I'm wondering if once the metal heats and expands it self seals?

[nm]

Bumping this old thread. May have a small leak from that joint... thinking of putting a clamp on it, just to be pedantic. Will report back.