Captbachus

I just bought a '76 L-48 w/ a 3 speed automatic. I'm not expecting huge results but would like to find a simple and fairly inexpensive ways to coax a little more performance out of the current set-up. How tough is it to swap out the exhaust manifolds and what kind of difference will it make? The rest of the exhaust is a brand new chambered system that I would like to keep. The sound is great!

Thanks for any input

flynhi

Since a gasoline engine is an air pump, anything you do to allow it to pump more air more freely will help out. If you add headers, add a KN type air filter. These will be basic to any future mods such as cam, roller rockers, fuel injection, etc.

PRNDL

It shouldn't be too difficult to remove the exhaust maniflods and install headers. However you will have to find a way to connect the headers to the rear section of your exhaust pipes. I assume the current chambered exhaust has a front section and a rear section that are connected at the frame crossmember.

SanDiegoPaul

Hmmm my '76 was also very weak when I bought it a few years ago. you are a step ahead, having the chambered exhaust ...

In my case I went 'full monte' and did the motor and exhaust at the same time. I built a 383 and put in Hedman Hedders with custom exhaust at the same time.

The power in a stock motor is there however if exhaust and intake are done first. You can then curve the distributor and adjust timeing and gears to suit your fancy.

The '76 was the last year they said 'STINGRAY' on them and it's a great year! Looking forward to seeing more from you and your car.

:flag

Disco_Mike

expect heat. unless you have ceramic coated ones.

Pete76Shark

With all of the above

Boofers

I installed headers but at the same time I did exhaust pipes and mufflers too. I was wondering to what degree do headers alone change the exhaust sound?

jrzvette

Check with the manufacturer or distributor of the chambered pipes. I think there is a special adaptor to connect them to headers. I believe the Mid America catalog asks you so specify whether or not you have headers when ordering their chambered exhausts. If you can't buy it separately you may have to have something fabricated.

Corey_68

You'll pick up some nice power gains but added head and decreased ground clearance are the drawbacks. Tootally worth it in my opinion.

comp

from what iv'e read probably 15/30 HP all depends on the headers h/x pipe
2" or 2 1/4" or 2 1/2 " etc. But you will feel the difference