ykf7b0

I have been thinking of getting some side pipes and side pipe headers for my 76 with a small block/auto and I have a few questions please.
Once the headers are installed how difficult is it to do necessary work including starter replacement, spark plug installation, and oil changes?
Who supplies the best fitting headers and side pipes?
Pictures would be really helpful in making my final decision on whether to install a side pipe set up or just leave it be with my regular header/exhaust out the back. Thanks!

OldCarBum

To do it right, the rear lower valance should be changed out and you may loose some performance over your current set up.

7t9l82

You don't have to change your rear valance on a 76. And you will likely get a good power increase after the engine is tuned properly. I have the OBX system and nothing is really bad to work on. Hope that helps.

ykf7b0

Thanks! I was just looking at an OBX kit.

ykf7b0

I think you are referring to a rear valance that has cut outs for the exhaust tips but my 76 does not have those. Thanks!

Bikespace

I put sidepipes on my 80. The used Hooker Headers from Craigslist fit well, and were inexpensive. I used ARP stainless studs, 3/8" on both ends which made for a tight fit. ARP also makes 3/8"x5/16" studs, which allow for smaller nuts next to the pipes, but I didn't see them in stainless.

The sidepipes clear up a lot of space under the car. Changing plugs was actually easier, since you can get to them from the top. I added plug wire guides on the valvecover bolts to allow for over the header wires with insulators. Oil changes are no different. I haven't tried changing out a starter, yet, but how often do you do that?

If you already have headers and a free-flowing exhaust, sidepipes may not be an improvement. If you have a really well-designed system with mandrel bends and an H or Y pipe, you may actually lose some HP. I think the cut-outs in the rear valence ended in 1973, the last year for the chrome rear bumper, so not a problem for you.

ykf7b0

My current system is Hooker Headers with 2 1/2 piping and Magnaflow mufflers. I am drawn to the looks and sounds of the side pipe exhaust on C3's. Thanks!

jackson

Right ... No exhaust tip cutouts in 76-up bumper cover.

Do remove old exhaust system

-add-
suggest for at minimum first several rides w/ sidepipes ... All occupants wear boots & jeans ... pipes are Not forgiving & will instantly scar ankles & calves.

big mort

I put Doug's on my 80. They fit really well. I actually returned a true dual system with tight tuck headers before because of the annoyances with fit, spark plug access, and starter access. None of those issues seem to be there with my Doug's. I bought the system piece meal as sales came up so they weren't bad pricewise. I did have to cut like .75 inches of glass off the tabs behind the front wheel. 10 seconds with a grinder on each side.

ykf7b0

I see pictures of 76 Stingrays with the wide lower stainless panels removed for side pipes. For myself I would not install a side pipe if those pieces must be left off. Is there a certain brand that allows the stainless to remain installed?

7t9l82

I have the trim panels with.my OBX pipes

ykf7b0

Do you have inserts for noise reduction? If so, which do you have? Thanks! Greg

SteveG75

The rocker trim has to be trimmed to clear the primary pipes. It is individual per the car and per the side. Recommend fit, trim, fit, trim, etc. I trimmed first using Hooker's template and one side is tight to the pipes and other side has a lot of clearance.

7t9l82

I have the 2 1/2 sweet thunder, they are a little loud but they now offer them wrapped to cut noise a little I'm thinking of doing that too.

ykf7b0

Thanks to everyone!!!! Do any of you have some pictures to post of your pipes and trimming required?

Pzark

I have the OBX side pipes. I believe you are referring to the rocker panel trim. It is aluminum not stainless and most people cut them to clear the pipes. I wouldn’t want to cut mine so I modified the header to clear. The drivers side cleared the rocker cover trim perfectly but not so the passenger side. So I cut the header tubes placed in sleeves and welded it back up. I did make a simple fixture to hold it all in place. Now both trim panels fit perfect and no cutting. I did post about this in the past with some pictures. I use SST inserts and have heat shields on the pipes to help against burns. Hope this helps you.

ykf7b0

A list of pro's-con's;
Pros: Cool factor
Cons: Heat
Louder
Ground clearance
Price
As you can see, I'm beginning to have second thoughts but not ruling them out just yet.

Bikespace

I think side pipes are cool, and C3s are one of a very short list of cars that can pull them off. That said, I have two C3s, so I don't have to compromise with either one. Side pipes would NEVER go on my 79 L48 auto.

To the cons on your list:
Heat: I haven't noticed it inside the cabin. The pipes were burninatingly hot before I tweaked the timing a bit. Side shields or header wrap are required, especially for passengers, but I can touch the pipes below the door after a drive without scorching myself (not true with a stock tune, as I learned the hard way)
Louder: Yes, absolutely. No getting around that.
Ground clearance: I haven't noticed. I use ramps, and single point lifts, and found working on the car easier with the sidepipes. YMMV.
Price: The solution you have is always cheaper.

My pipes required no trimming, but I have not yet put the side trim pieces back on (not because of the pipes, but because I need to put new inserts in the mounting holes).

ykf7b0

I have been studying up on my options for side pipe headers and as of now it seems to me that stainless would be the way to go. However, I’m reading that many are Chinese made with low quality stainless steel, including Hooker, that rust even though they are stainless. I know I can’t believe everything I’m reading but the evidence is mounting. That being said, I’m leaning towards Doug’s stainless for lasting, rust free, good quality, and good looks.

derekderek

my 75 has side pipes and the orig side trim behind the pipes. looks fine like that. of course my 75 looks like **** all around. mebbe with this world stoppage i can do some cosmetics...