cracked exhaust manifold and other issues

[Beagle RC Air]

After reading about an Alpine Coach burning down a few months ago we decided to stop in Hemet, Ca. area and get the manifold replaced and take care of a few other things that had been put off.
I posted on another forum about some of the failures and will continue to post pictures of the repairs.
I have heard from different mechanics over the years about heat issues from the exhaust brake being mounted in so close to the exhaust manifold as being the culprit behind the cracked manifold. Anyone else on this forum had the problem?
The turbo lube oil supply line is within a few inches of the cracked manifold and that has the potential for major problems in my mind.
Link to some pictures,
http://http://www.rv.net/forum/index...g/23722289.cfm
Beagle

[Dale777]

Beagle RC Air,

The link that you provided does not work.

[Beagle RC Air]

RV.Net Open Roads Forum: Do rules permit posting about independent RV mechanic?

[mythplaced]

I had a cracked manifold also

[Old Scout]

A number of 2003 and 2004s are experiencing blown exhaust gaskets and cracked manifolds. Exhaust brake proximity is not the issue as 03/04 have ISL 400s and jake brakes. Cant prove it but do think the propensity for RV owners to start and stop their engines multiple times per day may contribute to increased heat/cool cycles for the exhaust manifold [compared to the engine, these manifolds seem pretty flimsy given the weight of the turbo and the associated piping tht hangs off them]. Taking a lead from truckers--once started, I try to let my engine run all day, unless its for an extended stop.