Exhaust Manifold - Right Side - F8

[Jim Price]

I'm almost to the point where I'll begin to affix the exhaust pipes to the manifolds of my Ford flathead. The engine I purchased is set up for the exhaust to go out the right side of the frame. The F8 CMP with the driver's controls on the right requires the exhaust to go out the left side.

As I look at the space between the opening of the right side (driver's side) manifold and the clutch pedal arm, I can't help but wonder if this right side exhaust manifold opening originally was on a plane parallel with the ground instead of opening out at a 45 degree angle as it does now. (Although the left side is in a flat position, these manifolds are not switchable due as the bolting tabs position on each prevents that from happening.)

At this current 45 degree angle the manifold opening points directly at the pedals assembly and is approximately 1 to 1 1/2" away from the clutch pedal arm. As it stands now the right side exhaust pipe will need to be cut and formed in a severe angle in order for it fit in the available space. Only then will it point straight down before crossing under the engine to the left side and connecting with the left side exhaust pipe.

Besides having an exhaust pipe located between the clutch pedal arm and the manifold, there's also an internal body panel. How is all that going to fit in that space between the manifold and the clutch pedal arm! Not only that, the proximity of the exhaust pipe will definitely make this location on that body panel a hot one!

My question to all is this: Was there a different right side manifold made for the Ford flathead installed in the CMP truck and, if so, where can I find one? If not, how do I deal with this placement?

Any suggestions/replies will be most appreciated!

Regards,
Jim

PS The first picture below is from the driver's perspective and the second is from the front looking in.