I've seen a couple threads recently of vettes with sidepipes and think I may want to add a set to my vette.





So I am wondering what is involved in switching over to sidepipes and a general cost. Also do you have to worry about tarnishing/blueing of the pipes?

I don't want anything really loud just a nice rumble. Is the sound somehow adjustable (baffels) or how do you know what sound you will get?

I am pretty sure I want to add the heatsheilds and I found them listed for $495. So what else is involved and costs?

Thanks!

 

well i paid 1500.00 for my side exhaust, thats the chrome, hooker headers

 

the pipes and headers will cost you anywere from 1200-1500. the more expensive being the stainless steel. install is not terribly difficult. as to blueing of the pipes that can happen with chrome but it wont with stainless or ceramic coating. in terms of noise that comes down to what baffle you put in, no baffle - ungodly loud, hooker reverse flows - quiet but lame sounding, sts turbo baffles - perfect and adjustable to be louder if wanted. get the pipes, they are exact what any c3 needs

 

Patriot lake pipes..chrome...no discoloration... 285 dollars!

Easy install!

Easily rerplaceable...

Works for me!

 

I paid $900 for my "almost new" chrome Hookers from a FORUM member, and paid $200 for my STS baffles also from a FORUM member. Both included all original mounting hardware. Otherwise, the hookers can run almost $2000 and the STS baffles are around $400. Also, I just received a set of Dean's Steel Shields ($400) from the FORUM.

So, I paid $1500 for the ENTIRE set up, including the shields!

Love this FORUM!!!!!

 

at least tell him they're fake primaries.

 

These are actually working pipes, its just that they have a single working pipe instead of all 4. This way you can use your stock manifolds or as I did, hugger headers.

Here is my full install with pics....

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-g...tall-pics.html

Heres a video with sound......
http://www.ezlinks.org/vette/vette.swf

 

don't forget the cost to paint and install a new rear valance

 

if he's got a 77 thats not an issue

 

I got my Hookers, with glass packs, ceramic coated from JetHot for about $1300 complete, cheapest price I could find.
Dave

 

are you set on hooker type pipes, or are you considering 69 factory style as well?

 

This is where I need to be educated, not sure of the difference between hooker or factory?

And do the heat shields really work, from what I have read they do, but would like to hear from experience...

 

Cost (plus personal preference, and performance).... and yes

 

I can only speak for the factory style, as I have a pair in my basement ready for install right now. There are several ways you can go with the factory style. They make all fiberglass covers shaped like the original chrome pot metal, which you can paint any color you like. Cost, is cheap...then there are the repros made by Paragon, at least I think it is paragon, because they sell every bit individually...this is the most expensive way to go, but in my opinion this is the best looking side pipe out there. The cover is a chromed pot metal, made in three pieces, with a fiberglass and aluminum heat shield built inside, basically the exhaust pipe rides near the aluminum with an air gap, then that is backed with fiberglass, and another air gap between the glass and the external cover. This gives a pretty low external temperature to the chrome cover. Now as far as what mufflers to put inside those factory style covers, you can go straight pipe, 63-67 style, or the 69 style...I had Allen's make mine with with 63-67 style muffler...I can not tell how they sound as I have not installed yet.

Be glad you don't have to worry about the new rear valance...I will be going bubba style this summer with the stock valance...the new rear valance will be a winter project.

 

Thanks for all the great info. I really appreciate it. I am guessing another side benefit of the side pipes is cooler cabin. I get alot of heat now in the cabin, almost unbearable in the summertime with the tops on.

 

Don't go the fake route. Keep it real.

 

My 454 with lightly baffled Hookers are quite loud, but I console myself by considering how much I saved on needing a radio...

I'd vote with the "keep it real" team too...

 

I got my Hooker Headers from Summit Racing 1100.00 chrome and I hate them they started rusting in three weeks

 

Stainless steel is the way to go

 

It looks like you've really got to step over those to get in and out. I like the 69's, they don't protrude quite as much.
Currently, I'm installing a pair of Hedmans and going to fab up a custom set-up that fits under the 69 covers. Shooting for less than $750, which includes getting the headers Jet-Hot coated after break-in.