So I'm dry building a new engine for my track car and I'm confused & concerned by how close my headers are to the sump. I can just slip a beer mat between them but only just.

I had these same headers on my old EJ205 engine, but can't recall noticing they were basically touching the sump before. But then I never had that engine on a stand and its hard to notice everything lying on your back under the car.
The new engine in the photos is a EJ207, with an RCM baffled sump (which to me looks to start life as an OEM sump). The headers are unknown make, probably cheap items off ebay knowing the last owner.




*yes I will be replacing the tatty heat wrap!

I've searched around for a few photos of other headers and none look to go so close to the sump. This is a problem I didn't anticipate!

 

Do you have the correct sump fitted?

 

I'd hope so, it was supplied and fitted by Engine Tuner as part of the engine build.
It looks outwardly identical to the sump from my old EJ205. Apart from the extra threaded boss.

 

That imo needs a later/twin scroll sump. Think you will find those headers aren't suitable.

 

That was my initial thoughts.

 

My original thought, but is it the solution......

 

But looking at that photo and others online, I don't think that twinscroll sump will give extra clearance at the point where my exhaust is runs near the sump.
I suspect its down to cheap headers that dont fit properly.

I wish I had some different headers knocking about to cross check.

 

Looking at this comparison from a YouTube vid, it would give you a bit more clearance for the rear cylinder pipe

 

Sorry Not the best pics but this is mine ...
2.35 engine with GT spec headers and twin scroll/2.5 RCM baffled sump