need help side pipes
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 32
Likes: 0
From: Tronto ON
need help side pipes
my new side pipes just arrived (hooker side pipes) i just put the driver side in and found that it is touching the steering box ????.
i don't know if it is ok to touch .I anyone has put them in a 1981 corvette i could use your help .
i don't know if it is ok to touch .I anyone has put them in a 1981 corvette i could use your help .
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 19,294
Likes: 2,754
From: Charlotte NC
I have also run into Corvettes that were correct in regards to the frame and the headers were manufactured a little "off". And sometimes requires either another set being sent out...or dimpling the pipe just a bit to get the air space needed so you so not rub and wear a hole in the pipe. Check your motor mounts to make sure that they are in good condition.
I feel your pain, because buying a part and having problems with installation...especially when you would think that everything should go in "rikki-tick"...and it does not....takes all of the excitement to an improvement/alteration away.
"DUB"
Burning Brakes
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 1,090
Likes: 74
From: New Carlisle IN
I am pretty sure my frame is bent on my 73 and have the same problem. I repaced an old set of rusted headers with new ones last year. Had to put a big dent in the tubes to get it to clear. I also had to "modify" the headers in a couple other spots to get them to fit right.
I prefitted the headers and found the line i needed to dent. I took a screwdriver and put it up to the headers and beat on it with a hammer to get the shape Ii needed. It took quite a few tries to get everything to clear.
I prefitted the headers and found the line i needed to dent. I took a screwdriver and put it up to the headers and beat on it with a hammer to get the shape Ii needed. It took quite a few tries to get everything to clear.
Racer
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 444
Likes: 0
From: Dallas TX
I had the same problem in my 69. It required the tube to be flattened with a hammer. It took quite a few hits to get it going, but I didn't want to over do it. I used the hammer by itself, not with a screwdriver.
Patience and earplugs are helpful!
Patience and earplugs are helpful!
