So I recently finished my T5 conversion on my 66 fastback. I have been driving it around like a kid on Christmas, and let's just say that local Law Enforcement APPARENTLY frowns on open headers. Boo-Hoo.... Anyway, I am going to have my exhaust done on Monday, and I need to know pros and cons of different types of exhaust pipes. I have a 289, pretty much stock, with full length headers. I think the easiest and probably cheapest route would be to run separate pipes to the mufflers. This would also make it a hell of a lot easier to work on the drivetrain without having to drop the exhaust. Is there anything wrong with running a true dual? Would an "H" or "X" pipe be better? BTW, I plan on putting in a 450hp 347 stroker in the spring if this changes anyone's opinions on what I should do. I would rather do this now instead of changing the exhaust set-up with a new engine. Once again thanks for your help!

Mike

 

what size headers do you currently have and will you use them with the upgraded motor?

 

Full length 1 5/8" 2 1/2" ball and socket type collectors, and yes I bought these with the 347 in mind.

http://www.fordpowertrain.com/347step.htm (Pics)

 

I'd personally go with a nice h-pipe for what you have... I just don't like the sound of true duals for the street..

 

id do an h pipe as well it will give an nice rumble than just straight duals

 

I would go with an H-pipe set up as well. I'm running a the TKO-500 in my Mustang and the H-pipe fits perfectly around the Tremec and the cross member built for it.

An article in Mustang Monthly a few years ago determined that an X-pipe can give you about 5 more hp on a 450 hp motor over an H-pipe. If you're going with a 347, you won't miss that 5 hp unless you're going to be doing some extreme racing or crunching dyno numbers.

About the open headers....I am getting ready to pull my 302 and drop in a 428 PI and I was contemplating on whether to try to sneak out to the muffler shop with the open headers or just call a tow truck. I live in Hawaii, they don't really like my loud car here anyways. Might have to call the tow truck....

James

 

every soul. in the world. remembers their ride to the exhaust shop. if you can call it sneakin. i would highly recommend, you make this memory. public disturbance, at most is about a 75.00 fine. enjoy!! and i have an x pipe on our gt. it sounds pretty good

 

Thanks for all the input guys! Well, it looks like im gonna go with the "H" pipe setup for now. We'll see in the spring what I decide to do when I drop in the 347 Maybe I'll post a vid when the exhaust is done! Thanks again!


Mike

 

X pipe will supposedly give you a slight performance gain but won't sound right. Go h-pipe and check youtube for a similar setup with some audio clips. Stroking will also alter the sound from the classic sound. As for going totally separate I thought I read somewhere that that isnt a great idea.

 

Thanks WGC! I got the exhaust finished today, and they did a great job. I am definitely not used to how much quieter it is without the open headers, but it will save me a lot of money from ticketing haha Thanks for all your input guys, gonna try and upload a video later.


Mike