1981 L-81 Mounting Side Pipes, What Do I Need?
#1
Instructor
Thread Starter
1981 L-81 What Header Gaskets Do I Need?
I am about to order the Maximizer (OBX) non-resonated side pipe kit. The one I'm getting includes the mounting hardware for the pipes, but what else do I need?
Exhaust Manifold Gaskets-I have always used Mr. Gasket Ultra Seals. Should I go with these again? What part number should I use for an L-81? There are three different part numbers on Summit for the Mr. Gaskets (square port?) depending on exhaust port size. The numbers they show are 5900, 5901, and 5916.
Exhaust Manifold Bolts-I have read that different bolts must be used because of the difference in flange thickness from stock manifolds to headers. What length of bolts do I need?
Does anything else have to be replaced when installing these? Trying to get everything I need before I order so I will be ready to install when they get here.
My car is an L-81 with A/C, PS, etc.. Heads should be stock.
Thanks guys! Looking forward to having side pipes!
Exhaust Manifold Gaskets-I have always used Mr. Gasket Ultra Seals. Should I go with these again? What part number should I use for an L-81? There are three different part numbers on Summit for the Mr. Gaskets (square port?) depending on exhaust port size. The numbers they show are 5900, 5901, and 5916.
Exhaust Manifold Bolts-I have read that different bolts must be used because of the difference in flange thickness from stock manifolds to headers. What length of bolts do I need?
Does anything else have to be replaced when installing these? Trying to get everything I need before I order so I will be ready to install when they get here.
My car is an L-81 with A/C, PS, etc.. Heads should be stock.
Thanks guys! Looking forward to having side pipes!
Last edited by zakbradshaw; 02-22-2015 at 06:32 PM.
#2
I am about to order the Maximizer (OBX) non-resonated side pipe kit. The one I'm getting includes the mounting hardware for the pipes, but what else do I need?
Exhaust Manifold Gaskets-I have always used Mr. Gasket Ultra Seals. Should I go with these again? What part number should I use for an L-81? There are three different part numbers on Summit for the Mr. Gaskets (square port?) depending on exhaust port size. The numbers they show are 5900, 5901, and 5916.
Exhaust Manifold Bolts-I have read that different bolts must be used because of the difference in flange thickness from stock manifolds to headers. What length of bolts do I need?
Does anything else have to be replaced when installing these? Trying to get everything I need before I order so I will be ready to install when they get here.
My car is an L-81 with A/C, PS, etc..
Thanks guys! Looking forward to having side pipes!
Exhaust Manifold Gaskets-I have always used Mr. Gasket Ultra Seals. Should I go with these again? What part number should I use for an L-81? There are three different part numbers on Summit for the Mr. Gaskets (square port?) depending on exhaust port size. The numbers they show are 5900, 5901, and 5916.
Exhaust Manifold Bolts-I have read that different bolts must be used because of the difference in flange thickness from stock manifolds to headers. What length of bolts do I need?
Does anything else have to be replaced when installing these? Trying to get everything I need before I order so I will be ready to install when they get here.
My car is an L-81 with A/C, PS, etc..
Thanks guys! Looking forward to having side pipes!
I have Allen's side exhaust on my 1976. It's nearly a match to the 1969 option package. However, I have the fiberglass covers.
I can tell you the major hick-up I had is that these kits do not fit without a custom installation involving cutting and welding. The covers also were a cut to fit deal.
I was having work done anyway so I had it all done at once but my mechanic was not happy about it. Looks sick though!!
#3
Instructor
Thread Starter
I have seen some people saying they had to trim the rocker but many said they fit without modification. I haven't read any write-ups saying that the pipes themselves had to be cut/welded, but occasionally they had to slightly "dent" the pipe to fit around the steering components. What gaskets did you use/recommend? Trying to find which ones fit my stock heads.
I am looking at the ARP stainless 3/8-1" and 3/8-.75" header bolts with the 5/16 head. Should I order each of these and use what fits best?
I am looking at the ARP stainless 3/8-1" and 3/8-.75" header bolts with the 5/16 head. Should I order each of these and use what fits best?
#6
I just did OBX side pipes on my 81 over Christmas, email me if you have any questions. Tychamon@sbcglobal.net
Kevin
Kevin