73, Dark Blue 454

It's been a while since I've researched this topic but what are today's options for a kit, mandrel-bent exhaust pipes, from headers back (full length headers) for our C3's? I'm looking to install it on my BB 73. Would like to go 3" if anybody makes a nice-fitting set. I understand 3" will just clear through the tranny cross-member.

But will consider 2.5" if 3" isn't available.

Thanks for your help.

Solid LT1

Magnaflow and Stainless Works quickly come to mind for your answer.

BTAL

Pypes

retroLS1

We just ordered the Magnaflow big block exhaust to use with our LS1. 2.5" throughout. That should flow plenty unless you plan on going with forced induction later on. Part number is 16841.

http://www.planetmagnaflow.com/shop/...16841-961.html



If you plan to go that route, I highly recommend trying out that 'make an offer' button - worked well for us.

Fishndude

I think all kits will require you to have the pipes from the headers to the trans crossmember bent at a muffler shop.. Some kits will supply the pipe but they wont supply pre bent pipe for the first few feet after the collector because there are to many variables..

retroLS1

I believe the Magnaflow kit is designed to connect to stock headers, but I may be incorrect. Best check with them before purchasing.

MotorHead

While your there at the exhaust shop might as well get the rest fabricated for you too, probably won't cost much more and could cost you less, at least it will fit correctly

73, Dark Blue 454

I have a great pipe bender/welder here,..a placed called Muffin Muffler who's custom fit half the performance cars in this area.

What they don't have (nor do most) is mandrel equipment. I thought I'd purchase a kit and let my guy weld it up.

Agree, there are lots of variables.

I may run 3" head pipes to an X-Pipe then 2.5" from there. Or, I may go 3" all the way. (Engine is a 500-hp 496).

Thinking out loud.

Advice welcome.

dstaley

I don't know if it will help you any, but I bought a Magnaflow kit and modified it to work with my header equipped smallblock. I bought the 2-1/2" kit 16836 for my '76.

I cut up the kit downpipes to make the new segment from the header collectors to the X-pipe. I shortened the X-pipe portion on the front and removed the kit hangers (although I did use the car's original exhaust support on the front of the transmission crossmember) in order to clear my Dragvette drive shaft safety loop. I lengthened the diagonal back legs of the X-pipe to separate the tubes as they pass under the rear crossmember for more ground clearance, which also moved the left one away from the ground cable. I also shortened what remained of the rear of the X-pipe to put the mufflers in their proper positions.

The modifications were extensive but the fit and sound are outstanding, and ground clearance is as good as it could ever be from a 2-1/2" system. It took about 30 hours of work, the first time I had ever done it, on a friend's lift and doing all my own TIG welding. I'm not an experienced TIG weldor so someone who is would undoubtedly get done more quickly. I'm extremely pleased with the outcome.

larrywalk

I bought some mandrel bent pipes from Stainless Works... Nice pipes with full diameter bends. They do offer transition pipes from their headers to the rest of their system:
http://www.stainlessworks.net/cart/p...roducts_id=914