So what does "direct replacement" really mean? Help,, I just bought 2 sets and The welder is really busy makin them fit. 700 NXT drive pkg. I'm thinkin direct replacement is about
$3K...Hmmmmmmmmmmmm

Figure no set is the exact same plus all the different hulls they go in. There will be issues. Sorry bout your luck homie. :-/

I'd be on the phone to CMI asking WTF! This should extra welding and expense should not be required for a direct replacement header made to replace the CMI sportubes that come on 525efi's, 600sci's or 700sci/nxt's. Talk to CMI, what do they say?

Best Regards,
Ray @ Raylar

you should not need to alter the gen x header,if it is not identical to the merc specked header,call cmi,something is wrong,if cmi made a mistake,they will fix it,but after you alter them,they probibally wont be warranty anymore.

I did e-mail the rep. No response. However my installer said I would be free to return them as others are waiting in line. It was mentioned there was a jig change..OK so.... Should the tailpipes have to be realgned? Would I presume the collectors should point in the same direction as the sweepers? You wudd think A big manufacurer could point the collectors correctly.........mabe not.........its a boat thing

"Direct Replacement" refers to them being a direct replacement for standard Merc Bravo style. Meant to fit a factory boat with original Merc sterndrive. I bought a set and they fit perfectly.