On to the exhaust manifold next. I couldn't get any suitable studs for the choke pocket, I needed 1/4"-28 on both ends but it wasn't to be had anywhere. Best I could find was a 1/4" - 28 bolt that was only part threaded. I cut the head off and attempted to use a die to thread the other end. Unfortunately the bolt was grade 8 material and was too tough. I kept slipping in my vice no matter how hard I tightened the handle. Gave up and went to Plan 'B' which was to make my own from 1/4" steel rod. This proved easier than first imagined and the super long studs can be seen below. I'll trim them off once I know how long they need to be.
Finally the block off plate. I ended using a piece of 2" wide 3/16" flat steel bar to make the block off plate. First attempt was pretty dire and managed to make a complete mess of the second cut so had to junk it. I blamed this on being hungry and a ham and mustard sandwich soon had me back on track. Second attempt went much better, I made a new template and then using a combination of angle grinder, Dremel 4000, hand file and emery cloth I made the new plate. I'll spray it up to match the exhaust manifold so it will blend in a bit better.
