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The Stainless Bros 1.50in Diameter 1.5D / 2.25in CLR 180 Degree Bend 6in Leg / 6in Leg Mandrel Bend (part number 601-03896-1150) is a precision-bent U-turn tube section built for custom exhaust and intake fabrication. Constructed from 16-gauge 304 stainless steel, this 1.5-inch OD mandrel bend maintains a smooth, consistent bore through the 180-degree arc, preserving exhaust flow where crush-bent tubing would restrict it. The 6-inch leg lengths on both sides give fabricators ample straight tubing to trim and fit without losing the mandrel-bent section.
Features and Benefits
- 16-gauge (0.065in wall) 304 stainless steel resists corrosion and withstands high exhaust temperatures
- Mandrel-bent process maintains full round bore with no interior wrinkling or restriction
- 1.5D radius (2.25in CLR) provides a smooth, gradual arc for reduced backpressure
- 6in leg on each side allows easy trimming and welding integration into custom builds
- Polished OD finish simplifies visual inspection for defects and accepts welding without pre-cleaning
- 180-degree bend angle is ideal for J-bends, U-bends, and loop-back exhaust routing
- Consistent wall thickness throughout the bend ensures reliable TIG or MIG weld joints
- Versatile single-piece construction eliminates the need for multiple short sections and extra welds
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 601-03896-1150 |
| Brand | Stainless Bros |
| Material | 304 Stainless Steel |
| Wall Thickness | 16 gauge / 0.065in |
| Tube OD | 1.50in |
| Bend Radius | 1.5D / 2.25in CLR |
| Bend Angle | 180 Degree |
| Leg Length | 6in / 6in |
| Finish | Polished OD |
| Warranty | Stainless Bros limited warranty |
What's Included
- 1 x Stainless Bros 1.5in 180-degree mandrel bend (part 601-03896-1150)
- 6in straight leg on each end
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tube OD for the 601-03896-1150?
The outside diameter is 1.50 inches. When mating to other tubing or couplers, use components sized for 1.5in OD / approximately 1.375in ID tubing.
What does 1.5D radius mean for this mandrel bend?
1.5D indicates the centerline radius is 1.5 times the tube diameter. For this 1.5in tube, the centerline radius (CLR) is 2.25 inches. A larger radius equals a gentler curve and less flow restriction compared to a 1D tight radius bend.
Is this bend suitable for turbocharged exhaust applications?
Yes. The 304 stainless steel handles exhaust temperatures well and the consistent bore prevents turbulence. The 1.5D radius is appropriate for downpipes, intercooler piping, and exhaust mid-pipe fabrication on turbo builds.
Can I weld the 601-03896-1150 to mild steel exhaust tubing?
Yes, with the correct filler rod (ER309L is commonly used for dissimilar metal welding). A TIG weld provides the cleanest, most durable joint. MIG welding is possible but requires proper stainless wire and shielding gas.
What wall thickness is this Stainless Bros mandrel bend?
The wall is 16 gauge, equivalent to 0.065 inches. This is the standard wall thickness used across the Stainless Bros 300-series mandrel bend line and is appropriate for performance exhaust and intake fabrication.
How long are the straight leg sections on each end?
Each leg is 6 inches of straight tubing, giving you ample room to cut the bend to length or attach flanges and couplers. The overall arc adds additional length on top of the two 6-inch legs.
What applications is a 180-degree bend used for?
180-degree mandrel bends are used for J-bends (single-exit cat-back), muffler inlet routing, hairpin turns in tight chassis locations, and custom heat exchanger or intercooler core plumbing where a U-turn is needed in a confined space.
Does this bend require post-purchase finishing before welding?
The polished OD surface may have a light protective coating. Clean the weld area with acetone before TIG welding to ensure proper fusion. No grinding or heavy prep is required for standard welds.
Installation Instructions
- Dry-fit the 601-03896-1150 bend in the desired location before cutting any tubing.
- Mark the leg sections for trimming using a tube cutter or angle grinder with a cutoff wheel, ensuring square cuts.
- Deburr all cut ends with a file or deburring tool to prevent turbulence and ensure flush joint alignment.
- Clean all weld areas with acetone to remove oils and contaminants prior to welding.
- Tack-weld the bend into position using a TIG welder with ER308L or ER309L filler rod, checking alignment before completing full welds.
- Complete circumferential welds and allow to cool naturally. Do not quench stainless welds with water.
- Inspect welds visually for full penetration and absence of porosity before final installation.
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