Next project is to build the exhaust. I have block hugger headers and will be going with a side exit through the running boards. My headers came with a short 2 1/4" down pipe but not clamp plate to sandwich it to the headers. Anyone know where I can get the clamp plate which looks as though it will need a chamfer to enable the down pipe to be bolted up secure. Also, I prefer to have a 2 1/2" system so need a different downpipe of the same dimensions to fit the headers. Some photos below -






A quick update on the build. Just finished the hood to cowl gaps, now the truck is stripped back down to the frame to start engine/trans rebuild while we wait for the warmer weather to do the paint!!

 

Hood to cowl looks great

 

Thanks Roy, nothing but patience...

 

Summit Xpipe kit, small flex section. Hangers not added yet.


tight to the starter but should be enough clearance. Might wrap the this section eventually


2 1/2 collectors, 90degree pipes.


90degree out the mufflers and out the side. Welded with clamped sections so it can be removed pretty easily.

The parts that came with my block hugger headers (351W) were real thin and I didn't want to use them. I ended up doing a lot of browsing on the summit website and eventually was able to get all the parts I needed. Had to do some welding but it came out pretty well I think. Will find out otherwise once I take it for it's PA inspection.

 

Looks good I am planning on flex also what mufflers ? PS don't lose your line wrench .

 

LOL, Yeah, I saw that wrench was still there while working on something else. I got the Thrush Turbo Mufflers. Has a deep sound. Not 'real' loud but that's just running the motor as it's not ready to actually drive yet.

 

I'm expecting a delivery today from Summit among others with the exhaust kit, H pipe and mufflers (Flowmaster Super 50 series). I'm working on the side exits and it's going well and will also be using a couple of flex pipes. Great minds think alike eh!!
Photos to come over the next few days.

 

are flex pipes really necessary if you have flexible exhaust hangers? I have heard they can leak.

 

JTB, did you get your answer as to where to find a flange plate for the end of your down pipe? I may have missed it while reading, I am dyslexic as many know. If not I just picked one up at my local muffler shop (you may try yours), as the one that came with my down pipe seemed a little flimsy. Rock on my friend your getting there, heck your doing gaps, On mine if the edges dont rub, my gaps are good, ya know what Im sayin. LOL Your doing a real nice job.

 

Biggest problem with headers (more so long tube) is gasket leak theory is if you mount your mufflers etc solid add flex and let your engine move less stress on your headers side to side when engine tourques .

 

Jim, found some 1/2" flanges on EBay, should arrive Friday. Will need to chamfer the inner diameter to match the collector but should work out fine. Got my mufflers today but of course they sent the wrong ones so need to wait for replacements!! Not like I don't have something else to be getting on with!!
Cheers, John

 

thanks for the photos...

i've also got a 351 and block huggers — and an X-pipe kit sitting in the online 'cart' on Jegs, waiting for the funds to pull the trigger. i, too, was eyeing those flex sections at the autoparts store yesterday. looking at a very similar setup.

haven't decided yet though about mufflers (vs. glass packs, for example). i would like something "throaty", but not too loud (but loud enough).

 

is that a toyota steering box on there?