Cutting Exhaust??

[MxRacer855]

Hey guys,

On my '68 w/ a 440, I have to cut part of my exhaust in order to get my transmission out for a rebuild. It's obvious that the exhaust was welded together piece by piece because even with my rear end completely out, there's no way the header part of the exhaust that attaches to the cast iron manifolds will clear the torsion bars.

Right now it is 2-1/2" exhaust in good condition. I would like to by headers (Hooker super comp's) and install 3" exhaust before spring. Outside of the price of the headers, what will decent 3" exhaust with "X" piping and mufflers cost (parts), and average installation fees if I drove the car to an exhaust shop with just headers mounted?
Thanks

Jeff

[John_Kunkel]

There are several outfits that can supply 3" X-pipe systems that bolt on.

http://ttiexhaust.com/Category-ExhaustSystems/X-midpipe/X001.htm

[MxRacer855]

Thank you! I'm trying to get the rundown in a crash course. 


Jeff

[Cooter]

Yep, just like the newer cars, NOBODY seems to think about problems in their design come time to work on it. If the tranny never went bad, well, I guess a fully welded exhaust works then.

Not a biggie. They sell band style clamps now at NAPA and are the best thing for this. No need to worry. Cut away.

[MxRacer855]

Yep, just like the newer cars, NOBODY seems to think about problems in their design come time to work on it. If the tranny never went bad, well, I guess a fully welded exhaust works then.

Not a biggie. They sell band style clamps now at NAPA and are the best thing for this. No need to worry. Cut away.

Thanks Cooter! I figured it shouldn't be an expensive fix even if I cut away on the exhaust and wasn't supposed to. I was hoping that someone would respond with those exact words "cut away", to make me feel better! 

Should I try to cut in a certain spot, or use my best judgment? I only ask to keep anything salvageable if possible. I fully intend on starting over with 3" piping and mufflers with headers if I can do so for under $1100 or so...

Jeff

[Cooter]

I try and put em some place easily hidden, but where the  exhaust is cut enough out of the way
You can even use them with 3". I have them on my 99 Ram with long tube hedders and 3" pipes.
They are great, just don't overtighten them. Only enough to hold pipes tight. If overtightened, they tend to stretch.

[MxRacer855]

Roger that, will do! Thanks for the advice. I just need to get this semi-big project done by Spring so I can enjoy year #2 of my car! The first year was unfortunately plagued with problems (which were solved).

Jeff

[Cooter]

Glad to help Jeff. Anytime.