Hey all...
​​​​​I know there is a possibility that this is a silly question, but thought I'd ask. I recently purchased an '05 base. I have been a C3 owner previously, and have been able to do much of the service myself.
So....do you (meaning everyone who cares to answer) take your vette to a "Vette specific" shop for service? I have a local shop that takes care of my truck and my wife's car.
I don't have anything against local wrench folk....
just have a feeling there is a "thing" about taking your newer "computerized" vette to a specialty shop. I want to upgrade the exhaust system.

 

An exhaust is an exhaust, no matter what it is on. Just make sure they route the O2 sensor wires and slave cyl hose (if it is a 6MN) away from the new exhaust. Do not be intimidated by the amount of tech in the car, remember it is still a SBC powered Chevy. You will also get plenty of advice from those here, so don't be afraid to ask.

 

Thanks for the info. As for the O2 sensor, and slave hose...what's the "MN"? Just not used to this stuff. I have a Vette specific body and repair shop nearby. Will have to pay them a visit. Thanks again for the advise!

 

manual trans*

By exhaust do you mean from the catalytic convertors back or the headers all the way back?

If you swap the headers, you will want to follow the previous advice. Some people have had issues with O2 sensors/slave cylinder hose/spark plug wires touching the headers and melting. If you are doing a cat-back exhaust, you will be fine. Does your car have a dual mode exhaust? If so, be aware you will lose this functionality unless you specifically buy a dual mode aftermarket exhaust (also known as NPP exhaust).

Someone will correct me if i am wrong but I believe the 05-08 cars and 09-13 cars have different exhaust setups so when you are purchasing them, be sure to buy the right one.

 

I do my own work, except for engine work or computer related stuff.

 

The hardest thing to do on your C6 is get it up off the ground, its a mechanical device after all. Buy a year specific GM service manual and just have a go.
if you find you cant do something then get help.
your never to old or to young to learn a few new tricks.
You can invest in a Tech 2 or something similar, and the car will tell you just what's going wrong. its not really that simple but you will learn,
If you run into something you cant do, take it to the so-called expect.

 

Thanks. Should have figured out the MN. Yes, it's a 6spd manual. This exhaust thing started after I had an engine light interpretation (from the dealer) as a left cat bank failure. I came on here a while back, and posted the dealer wanted $1800 to do that. I know dealer prices are shockingly high. But, I had a lot of folks suggest to go on the sales on this forum, and I could find a complete used, ZO6 exhaust for 1200, and put it on myself. I no longer have the ability to do much work with my vehicles in the community where I live. I understand having the manual trans is more advantageous when it comes to the exhaust, I just can't do it myself. I'm thinking I will go ask my local ma/pa auto shop if he works on newer Vettes. It would seem some folks must trust these guys. I'm just now sure I can. I am in a City I have lived in for just 1.5 years. So, the knowledge gained with time spent in the community is not my friend.

 

I had the same HOA issue where I used to live, but managed to do stuff that even some shops won't touch. If you can get the car in the garage with the door closed, you're only limited by the working space and your desire.
BTW, $1200 is a bit high for a full Z06 exhaust.

 

To the op (original poster), maybe contact a local corvette club and ask for their recommend shops.

 

Brilliant! Will do..