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I am planning on putting side pipes on my 76, by a professional. I have done some research and it looks like the frame will need to be notched. The body is already off the frame and my plan is to take the rolling chasis to the "exhaust man" to get everything fitted. Once everything is fitted I am going to bring it back and take everything off the frame so I can send it to powder coating. Any flaws in my plan or other pros or cons I should consider. Thanks
I have not heard of anyone having to notch the frame for side pipes. What style, factory or hooker sidemount style?
I really don't know much about them to be honest with you. I am trying to gather as much information and advice as possible before speaking with the "exhaust man" so I can appear to know what I am talking about.
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (appearance mods)
C3 of Year Winner (appearance mods) 2019
I have seen guys that have had to notch the rocker panels a bit, but not the frame. I have Side pipes on my 76 and did not have to do either. Definitely ask around before you go any farther.
I have seen guys that have had to notch the rocker panels a bit, but not the frame. I have Side pipes on my 76 and did not have to do either. Definitely ask around before you go any farther.
Yes you might have to notch the rocker panels but not the frame, the exhaust guy will have to get the car up at least 3 1/2 feet to get the headers in.
(((( disconnect the battery first ))))) What could go wrong ?
Mounting the side pipes is no problem, its getting the headers to fit in where the problems become apparent.
I have a 73 I'm doing a frame off and with the body off it take less then 30 min to install the Hooker side pipes. You should be able to do it your self and save the cash the muffler guy will charge you. Your frame should already have the slots in it for the bolts. There's only 2 bolts on each side and the engine holds the front.
I am planning on putting side pipes on my 76, by a professional. I have done some research and it looks like the frame will need to be notched. The body is already off the frame and my plan is to take the rolling chasis to the "exhaust man" to get everything fitted. Once everything is fitted I am going to bring it back and take everything off the frame so I can send it to powder coating. Any flaws in my plan or other pros or cons I should consider. Thanks
Did you mention what type side pipes you plan to use. I don't believe there's any notching of the frame for any type. I installed the factory side pipes from GM (69) no notching.
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I have installed big block headers and sidepipes on my 76 no problem and no notching. I also did it with jack stands. I did not have to raise my vette 31/2 feet to do it either. Thats crazy. The only spot that is snug, is the pipe next to the steering box. About 3/8" clearance. Do it yourself and safe some money for other stuff.
Last edited by scrappy76; Jul 11, 2014 at 06:23 AM.
Reason: add
I agree with the others, they fit fine with the frame but I did need to notch the rockers panels. I installed mine while the engine was out, but I think installing them with the body off would make it pretty easy... no need for a professional IMO.
Didn't even need to modify the rockers to install mine. They're from Doug's headers.
Love the way you did the back and hood. I have been toying with some type of stripe but did not want racing stripes. I may steal this idea. Mine will be a Dark Navy Blue (Huntington Blue) with a white stripe.
Is the back off of a 78? I would like to add the spoiler as well and have read that the pre-molded spoiler on a 78 will fit the back of a 76.
Thanks for all of the great advice. Project got sidelined for a few weeks ( Will not be the last time) so I hope to make some progress on it this weekend.
Side Pipes on 76
