OMC 4.3 V6 dry joint "batwing" conversion exhaust kit

ccourser

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Nov 19, 2025
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I am looking to replace my 1989 OMC 4.3 V6 "batwings" with a dry joint system (with hopefully Barr or Mercruiser). I know GLM and BPI offer wet joint kits. From what I read Barr/Mercruiser dry joint manifolds will fit the motor. I am stuck trying to determine the correct part number for the dry joint risers and understand the Volvo Penta (3853372/914936) Upper Exhaust Pipe Elbow Tubes have to be used to mate to the exhaust with the appropriate rubber connectors. Thanks in advance.
 

Scott06

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Apr 20, 2014
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I am looking to replace my 1989 OMC 4.3 V6 "batwings" with a dry joint system (with hopefully Barr or Mercruiser). I know GLM and BPI offer wet joint kits. From what I read Barr/Mercruiser dry joint manifolds will fit the motor. I am stuck trying to determine the correct part number for the dry joint risers and understand the Volvo Penta (3853372/914936) Upper Exhaust Pipe Elbow Tubes have to be used to mate to the exhaust with the appropriate rubber connectors. Thanks in advance.
I think @Lou C did this swap on same engine
 

Lou C

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Nov 10, 2002
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I thought of that when I converted mine back in 2017, but I thought there could be slight dimensional differences that might cause leaks. So I went with the Barr OMC/Volvo wet joint with the VP 90* down pipes and rubber hoses. Fit fine no leaks…I think I’d have to be able to borrow a manifold/elbow to check for fit, I would like to have the dry joint system….
 

Lou C

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That's exactly what I was thinking of, there's a 7*, 10*(?) and 14*, after thinking the whole thing though I felt it was less trouble to use what I know would work.
Also there's the relative heights of the outlet of the elbow, above the mounting points, there is really no way to know if it would work, unless you could get a shop to loan you a manifold and elbow and trial fit it with the hoses, etc.
BTW, I scoped my manifolds yesterday with the inspection camera and they still look good inside, no signs of leaks. No leaks on the outside either. I think I'll run em one more season and then replace the whole works. Parts, about $1,000. Labor is free lol.
So I can tell you for sure that the Barr kit + VP down pipes and hoses, will work, on the starboard side it's a little tight with the steering actuator and the hose coming off the P/S cooler but it all fits and works.
 

rolmops

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Feb 24, 2002
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Somewhere in these pages there is a comment made by Bondo about mixing Mercruiser and OMC/ Volvo parts. He does not think that it is a good idea. I would go with Bondo's opinion on anything having to do with engines
 

Bondo

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Somewhere in these pages there is a comment made by Bondo about mixing Mercruiser and OMC/ Volvo parts. He does not think that it is a good idea. I would go with Bondo's opinion on anything having to do with engines
Ayuh,...... I donno much 'bout the fitment being discussed here,....
But a couple of comments anyway,.. I can hardly believe Lou got the life outa his batwings that he did, after the destruction I saw on other boats, that had those cursed things,....
'n, I seem to remember a difference in diameters 'tween OMC, Volvo, 'n Merc's,.....
 
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