Hi Guys,
I'm close to install the engine back on the frame on my 68 vette.
Before putting the body back on the frame, I'd like to finish up all the
exhaust system piping.

My idea is to install the Hooker Super Competition Headers (1 7/8" inlet 3"
outlet ceramic coated), then 3 to 2 1/2 reducers, all piping alluminized
steel 2 1/2" till the tail, after the tranny the H type balance tube Pipe,
and 2 Flowmaster 40 series mufflers. (2.5" center inlet, 2.5" offset outlet)

Has anyone tried this combination?
Any remarks about the Headers? Hooker - Hedmann?
Is there enough clearance to install them? (I don't want to modify them, bent or crush them)
Are the bends between the rear end and the mufflers for sale somewhere? Is the disposition center inlet,offset outlet right on the mufflers?

Thanks for any comments or suggestions.

Dan
:thumbs: [IMG][/IMG]

 

You more or less described my exhaust system... except I have flowmaster 50s. I just installed the Hooker supercomp headers and at this very moment I am struggling to connect the headers to the rear exhaust pipes. I am using flex pipe and will eventually have to take it to a muffler shop to have some pipe bent to fit. The headers are a very tight fit - experiences vary. In my case, very very close on the drivers side, but no contact. On the passenger side header was just touching the idler arm, but I was able to move it ever so slightly. Ground clearance seems adequate.

I originally bought an aluminized exhaust system from Allen's stainless. The system I bought was for a car with headers. It included the elbows for the inlet and outlet side of the Flowmaster mufflers. These elbows fit, and worked great. He probably would sell the elbows seperately. Unfortunately, the front sections of exhaust pipe (that connect the headers to the rear exhaust pipes) do not fit. That is the part I eventually will need to get custom-made.

I have had a lot of fun crawling under the vette and messing with exhaust pipes. I started with flowmasters and stock manifolds. Then I chopped up an extra set of pipes and put in an H-pipe. Now I am installing the headers. Best case, I still have a clamped together system. Based on all the money I have spent and the work done, I would recommend taking it to a qualified exhaust shop and pay to have a custom bent system put in... unless of course you really enjoy doing it yourself! :lol: MJ

I will double check, but I think you want the INLET offset, and the outlet centered on your mufflers.


[Modified by MNJack, 4:47 PM 6/7/2003]

 

I have a 454 in my 72 and had to crush the passenger side Hooker header to clear the idler arm. Otherwise they were a great fit, a very tight fit, but a great fit none the less. :thumbs:

 

Thanks Jack and Obdoc,
I still have to purchase all parts for the exhaust, but wanted firs to know some impressions about the system.

What headers would you recommend, plain steel wraped with thermo tec or the ceramic coated?
Since the flow is better, there should be some heat dissipation how does the cockpit feel? Does it get to warm ?

Do you know a place where they sell the complete exhaust pipes on 2 1/2"?
If I would have the original bends I could copy them here, but without them I would prefer buying the complete set and install it myself.

Thanks again for your posts

Dan :thumbs: