Hey guys. I have a 1970 big block that I'm wanting to convert over to side pipes. But I am having a hell of a time figuring out what brand to go with. There is an overload of advice out there, much of it conflicting, and it's hard to sort it out. But here are what my requirements are:

* Chrome that won't peel or rust or turn blue on me
* High performance
* American made
* Easy fit (want to avoid any cutting on my car), though I will have them professionally installed

I have read enough horror stories about Hooker's quality that I'm not going near them. I also don't want anything to do with OBX (I don't care if their products are free, I'm not slapping Chinese side pipes on my classic American muscle car, that's just wrong). It seems like most of the feedback on Doug's headers and pipes is pretty good--is that the right way to go? Or are there better options? While I'd like to keep costs down, I don't want to buy something cheap and regret it later. Your advice is appreciated.

Thanks!

 

Many years ago when I had my first Corvette which was a '70 coupe with the LS5 454 motor , I decided I wanted side exhaust for it.

I wound up buying the complete OEM side exhaust stuff for a '69 427 car. I also had to buy a '69 427 left side exhaust manifold so that the left side part would bolt up. Once I got that manifold on, the side exhaust bolted right up. The covers attached using the same screw locations used by the '70 lower rocker panel trim. The '70 also had the keyhole opening at the rear of the frame so the factory side exhaust bracket worked. I got a body shop to close up the openings at the rear where the exhaust tips were located.

Of course the problem now is the cost of the factory side exhaust. I think some of the aftermarket catalogs have the pipes. I have never seen the OEM-style chrome covers. Guess the aftermarket covers could be chromed? A good muffler shop could connect the side exhaust to the '70 manifolds so you don't have to get a 69 manifold.

I really liked the sound of the factory side exhaust, but long drives were pretty hard on my ears especially with the window down

The Hooker system works, but with that huge pipe running along the bottom is an invitation to burn your legs if you aren't careful. I do like having the muffler insert for street use and removing it for "spirited" driving....

 

My 72 is a 454 car but now has a 350 in it so not sure if that helps.. I have hooker super comp headers and side pipes with no cutting required. I have side pipe heat shields on them so burning my leg is not an issue.. Other than it being a little loud I wouldn't have it any other way.

I don't know how long they've been on my car so I'm not aware of any issues..

 

As I understand it, Hooker used to make high quality parts. But some time back they moved their production to Mexico and it went in the tank. Their customer support sounds pretty bad too. So I'm gonna try to stay clear of them unless I end up finding some of their older, higher quality products that will work.

 

When I changed my heads to AFR's and reinstalled the Hookers I did need to do some clearancing on a couple of tubes. Not a big deal for me but maybe its just too much for others. Pipes will blue especially if the engine runs lean i.e. higher exhaust heat but that should only be on the tubes. If the blue is showing up by the side pipe collectors then I think an engine is running way too lean! I also needed to trim a bit off the rocker panel on the left side. Again, no big deal for me and you can't notice it anyway without getting your face right down in there. "I love my Hookers". I have the Max Flow inserts also and Cobra shields. Engine produced 357 rwhp on a MD so I doubt the side pipes are restricting flow.

 

I'm thinking about doing these - just the sidepipes with the small brackets welded on - chrome of course. They would be plated by the best pipe plater in the USA too. No import crap.

 

had a buddy that bought a 67 427, with side pipes, too loud to ride in.

 

the big question is what muffler insert is being used.. There are many options each with pros and cons.

 

Well dammit. Apparently Doug's Headers are made in Mexico now too. And even their "Patriot" brand products (how is that for false advertising). Unbelievable...

 

According to the manufacturer these are made in the USA. They are on my list to replace my Hookers.

http://shop.huronspeedproducts.com/X...pipes-C3SB.htm

Tom

 

I put Dougs Headers and side pipes on my 74. I went with the ceramic coated and a 3" slide in opening muffler. It is loud, but I love it. They fit well, and cleared everything, except the A/C compressor mount. That was fixed with a little grinding. I like them regardless of where they are made.

 

I have a set on my big block and love them. If sound is an issue....side pipes are likely not your cup of tea lol. Having the exhaust exit right beside your ear alone is loud regardless of your muffler choice. Sure does make working on the rear end/under the car MUCH quicker and easier though.

 

This alone is worth the extra bucks for side pipes.

 

If you are looking for all out performance, I'd go with Stahl side exits with Hooker 4" tailpipes. They are now made by ACP ih Harrisburg, Pa. I don't know if they fit with air conditioning and power steering or not. Although not shown on their website. http://www.acproducts.us/index.htm

 

I have older Hooker Super Comps and Side Pipes on my 68 L71 (painted), no major clearance issues, number 1 Cylinder Spark Plug r&r is a pain, forget about reaching underneath to drain oil from the side (I understand most would say it's a low car anyway, but I'm just pointing out my experience as I ended up getting a qwik-lift due partially to the pipes).

 

When I get the cash, I am going to have these guys make some for me. Billy Boat, racecar driver is the owner of the company. His brother Mike makes the headers, I spoke to him on the phone a couple times. They have double wall construction so you don't get burned. Stainless steel won't rust out on ya. About 2 grand, but from what I hear they are worth it. A few guys on here have them. Website isn't the best, doesn't show stainless steel but he does make them as per our phone call.
http://www.bbexhaust.com/exhaust/chevrolet/corvette-c3/

 

You've got the bucks!!! Hope they work out for ya.

 

After Holley purchased Hooker they moved Hookers manufacturing back to the USA to Aberdeen, MS.

https://www.holley.com/about/holley/contact/

I have a set in stainless steel with max flow inserts.

 

I blew all my cash painting my car, and the engine threw a rod the very next day.

 

Regardless of where Hooker's manufacturing is, the constant flaw I see in threads when I ask about it is the dismal after-sales service. I bought a set of Hookers in 2004 and one side (six years later) started showing rust on the weld at the gathering section. The rest of the the header is fine and so, too, is the other header. It's evident there is a failure of the ceramic coating at the weld--workmanship, regardless of where manufactured, no longer is warrantied with Hooker. There are more reputable choices on the market. Keep searching on the Forum. I regret seeing a brand name since my youth falling to the wayside.