Does this look like a crack in the manifold to anyone? I believe it is, but I have also seen that layers on the manifold peel off, but when looking closer at the bottom (top of picture), near the downpipe flange, it seems to be a crack for sure.

 

No. Looks like rust flaking off.

Also, thread moved to correct section.

 

I apologize for having it in wrong section, I realize that now.

I would like to think it is rust as other spots are similar, but the one part near the top looks awfully like a crack, I have to change the downpipe section so i might just swap out manifolds too...

 

Is it making a hissing or ticking noise?

 

Doesn't look like a crack to me.

I can't believe how rusted that thing is though. I took the heat shield off of mine to prevent crap from building up under there. 6 winters later mine looks almost new.

 

I know when mine was cracked it made a ticking noise under throttle.

 

Agreed.

I coated my ported GMPP manifold in high temp ceramic paint (cast iron color), and retained the heat shield. Thing looks mint still.

 

My downpipe has taken a crap so there is lots of noise there... I have a replacement piece for it, but upon doing that replacement I noticed this "crack". I just bought the car this spring so I have no idea if the exhaust has ever been done, it is an 06. Apparently engine has been changed. I don't want to swap out the downpipe piece and realize the manifold does have a crack, I hate doing things twice.

If I do the work and it isn't a crack, I can live with that, at least I know it is sealed up good.

I would do aftermarket exhaust but I want to keep it stock for now, I may do an engine swap next year or year after that (3800SC)... take this from DD to toy. I rather not spend unnecessary $ into it.

 

The 3800SC would be one of the worst engines to swap into a cobalt. 3500 on the other hand...

 

I have circled the part in red that has me believing it is cracked...

 

Not cracked.

 

Okay... well I have decided to go ahead and swap out the dp and leave the manifold, I hope you guys are right! lol.

I have yet to see a cracked manifold from any car I have owned, just poor welds from previous owners... so I trust you guys since I am rather new to these cars.

 

How many miles are on that?

 

I would've changed it just because of how rusted it is. lol

 

This.

 

No idea on miles, there are nearly 255000 on the car though! Wouldn't think it if you were to look at it though, just little dings from people not knowing how to open doors, otherwise it is in great shape, zero rust.

I may change it, we'll see when I do the downpipe.

 

Not cracked or you would see black soot around it and hear it ticking.